Gambhir Stresses Pandya, Bumrah Fitness Ahead of World Cup

NEW DELHI: (Sports Desk) – India head coach Gautam Gambhir has stressed the need for all-rounder Hardik Pandya and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah to be fully fit, match-ready and in good rhythm ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.

Speaking in an interview, Gambhir said both players would have important roles in India’s World Cup campaign and would require sufficient game time before the tournament.

He particularly highlighted Pandya’s importance as an all-rounder, noting that his ability to bat at No. 6 or 7 and contribute up to 10 overs with the ball makes him a valuable option for the team.

Gambhir pointed out that Pandya has not played much cricket since the IPL and may require time to regain his rhythm in the 50-over format.

The India coach suggested that playing some T20 cricket before returning to ODI action could help Pandya regain match fitness and gradually prepare for the demands of one-day cricket.

Gambhir stressed that players should not enter a World Cup without adequate preparation, saying sufficient match exposure and rhythm would be essential before such a major tournament.

Regarding Bumrah, Gambhir said both Test and ODI cricket would remain important for the fast bowler. However, he acknowledged that the team management would need to carefully determine his workload and manage his game time according to his fitness.

Gambhir also underlined the narrow margin for error at a major tournament such as the World Cup, making careful workload management and proper match preparation particularly important.

With the 2027 World Cup scheduled to be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, India’s management will look to ensure key players such as Pandya and Bumrah enter the tournament with sufficient match practice and fitness.