Indian Team coaching staff (Source: AFP)India's focus will now shift to the 50-over format as the 2027 ODI World Cup nears. After the three-match ODI series against West Indies, India have a packed schedule ahead, with five ODIs in New Zealand, three against Sri Lanka at home and another three-match series against Zimbabwe at the start of 2027.While the team will continue to test different combinations, the all-rounder position is expected to receive special attention. Hardik Pandya's latest fitness setback has again raised questions about his availability, making Nitish Reddy an important part of India’s long-term planning for the World Cup 2027. Recently, India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, also shared his view on the matter.Nitish Reddy Enters India’s 2027 World Cup ConversationOne fact that cannot be denied is that Nitish Reddy has not yet fully established himself in ODI cricket, having played only six matches in the format. However, his recent progress with the ball has given the Indian team something to work with.It is important to note that the 23-year-old impressed during the recent T20I series against Afghanistan, taking six wickets in three innings at an average of 8.78. His bowling has also reportedly looked sharp in training ahead of the IND vs WI ODIs, while his batting has been steady enough to keep him firmly in the all-rounder conversation.Morne Morkel believes Nitish Reddy's ability to contribute in all three departments is one of his biggest strengths. The bowling coach has stressed the importance of keeping things uncomplicated and concentrating on the basics rather than trying to do too much.Also Read: India Stars Who Have Best Chance To Enter 2027 World Cup Plans Through West Indies ODIs"I think Nitish, if we just rewind to the T20s, the way he bowled in different situations has been very impressive. The message to him all the time is just to keep things simple and do the basics as well as possible. I think he's a very talented guy when it comes to bat, ball and field. He always wants to be the guy who wants to create opportunities, and having that mindset is fantastic." India's bowling coach Morne Morkel said. "Look, for me, the main focus I reckon would be: we can talk, and you can look at different options, how you want to go about playing XI. But for me, the end of the day is that whoever walks onto the field now, up until the World Cup, starting on Sunday, needs to know that there's a certain standard we want to achieve. I want these players to put themselves under pressure, as much pressure."I think coming to the World Cup on the biggest stage, you can't decide a month or a week before the tournament that now we're going to step things up. I think it starts now with this series against West Indies; how, with bat, ball and in the field, we put ourselves under pressure.However, Nitish Reddy has also faced fitness issues, including a quadriceps injury that kept him out of the Ireland and England tours.With Hardik unavailable for the West Indies ODIs, he has another chance to secure a strong place in the 2027 World Cup if he performs well.How Is Indian Team Preparing Nitish Reddy For 2027 World Cup?The Indian team under Gautam Gambhir wants to understand how Nitish Reddy can be used in different match situations and what responsibilities he can handle ahead of the 2027 World Cup.Morne Morkel also indicated that the coaching staff wants Nitish to be proactive. Rather than simply waiting for opportunities, he is being encouraged to ask for the ball, attack with it and take responsibility when the team needs him.The team management is also trying to create the right environment for his development. The coaching staff does not want the World Cup preparation to begin only shortly before the tournament. Instead, players are expected to experience pressure during the upcoming ODI cycle so they can learn how to deal with difficult situations.Nitish Reddy Gets Long-Term BackingHardik Pandya’s fitness remains a major part of the discussion, and for Nitish Reddy, that creates an opportunity, especially with the 2027 World Cup in mind. India can potentially use both players together if Hardik returns and becomes fully fit. That would give the team another combination to consider before the World Cup. For now, the message to Nitish Reddy is clear, keep developing as a genuine all-rounder in place of Hardik Pandya.Also Read: PSL 2027 Schedule To Directly Clash With IPL; Reason Revealed
