Gautam Gambhir emphasizes match practice for Hardik Pandya before World Cup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 12:11 PM
Last updated Sep 24, 2026
Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah will miss India's ODI series against West Indies due to fitness concerns. Head coach Gautam Gambhir stressed the importance of match practice for Pandya ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. As India gears up for the World Cup, the team is managing a crowded schedule and considering workload management for senior players. The ODI series will be crucial for building competitive form, though Pandya's absence raises questions about his readiness. Gambhir believes players need ample game time to enter the tournament in the best rhythm and confidence.
- •Pandya and Bumrah are unavailable for the West Indies series.
- •Gambhir highlights match fitness as critical for Pandya.
- •India's preparatory series for the World Cup begins soon.
- •Workload management will be essential amid a busy schedule.
- •Upcoming multi-format tour of New Zealand poses additional challenges.
- 12:11 PMYahoo Sports — ‘You cannot go there half-cooked’: Gautam Gambhir’s message for Hardik Pandya ahead of 2027 WC
"Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah will miss the ODI series against West Indies due to fitness issues. Head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasized the need for Pandya to gain match practice before the World Cup. The upcoming series against West Indies marks the beginning of India's preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Gambhir suggested senior players might need rest to properly transition between formats during their crowded schedule.
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