‘His body is fragile’: Former India star expresses concerns over Hardik Pandya’s chances of playing in 2027 ODI World Cup Cricket News
former indian batsman Mohammad Kaif caused concern Hardik PandyaRecurring health issues have questioned the all-rounder’s injury status while acknowledging the uncertainty over whether he will still be part of India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans.Hardik He recently missed the ODI series against Afghanistan due to injury and has also been ruled out of India’s upcoming 50-over series against England in July. His absence has reignited discussions about his long-term health, a topic Kraft feels has never been adequately addressed.Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif acknowledged Hardik’s immense value to the Indian team and called him an irreplaceable all-rounder in the current squad. However, he admits the Baroda star’s injury record makes it difficult to predict how long he can last at the highest level.“I cannot accept his assurances and even I do not understand his situation. He is such an important match-winner. In the current scenario, no one can come close to him as an all-rounder. He knows this too. But his body is fragile. He was injured in 2023 too and it was not the same after that. However, there is no news about his injury and no proper reason was given. I don’t know what is said and what is the official reason. If you know, please tell me. We only know the situation through sources,” he said.Kaif also criticized the lack of communication about Hardik’s fitness and felt fans deserve more transparency whenever a key player is absent.“The fans also have the right to know exactly what is going on and we need more transparency. Hardik has been that way throughout his career. Regarding his injury, there are always questions about what exactly happened and why he was out,” he added.Kaif also expressed his views while discussing India’s ODI squad Yashasvi JaiswalThe team was missing from the England series. The young opener proved his quality with a century in the last ODI against Afghanistan but was still left out of the 15-man squad.Kaif supports elector choice decision Ishan Kishan Instead, he pointed to the wicketkeeper-batsman’s versatility and ability to contribute in multiple roles. He also expressed Kishan’s current form and the support of the head coach Gautam Gambhir Good for him.“Jaswal will play. He will be an all-rounder. His time will come too. Agarkar has said that they can only select 15 players and I agree with him. We have a lot of quality players but some will always miss out like this. They have to choose Jaiswal or Ishan Kishan. Kishan got the nod as he can bat in the middle as well. Jaiswal is a suitable opener. Kishan can also be the backup wicket-keeper. Also, Gambhir hopes Kishan will be there too. There is also this kind of liking. I said this last time too. He’s in good shape too, so I agree with the decision. Jaiswal needs to wait a bit,” Kaif said.Despite missing out on the opportunity, Kaif still believes Jaiswal’s future depends on India in all three formats. For now, though, the youngster may have to remain patient as the race for a spot will continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle.
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