Will Bumrah and Hardik Pandya Play in the 2027 World Cup? Gambhir's Clear Answer
By Zeeshan Mehtab | Published September 26, 2026 | 11:42 AM
India Coach Gautam Gambhir on Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah's Fitness
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has provided a clear update on the fitness of Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Emphasizing the need for thorough preparation, Gambhir stated that Pandya and Bumrah cannot participate in the tournament without being fully ready.
Hardik Pandya has been absent from cricket since the 2026 IPL due to a muscle strain, while Bumrah recently missed India's Test series against Sri Lanka due to a left knee injury.
Pandya has been included in the squad for a three-match series against Australia in October, while Bumrah is expected to return to India's squad for the 2026 Asian Games.
During an interview on JioHotstar, Gambhir highlighted the significance of both players for India's team in South Africa.
He noted the all-round value of Pandya, particularly his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, and expressed the need for him to gain more match practice.
Gambhir stated, "It would be better for [Pandya] to play some T20 cricket before transitioning to one-day cricket... Game time will be crucial before the World Cup."
He added, "You cannot go to the World Cup with incomplete preparation; there is no room for ifs and buts in the World Cup."
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