India need Hardik, Bumrah in top rhythm before ODI World Cup 2027: Gambhir

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has stressed the importance of Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah being fully fit, match-ready, and in good rhythm before the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, 24NewsHD TV reported.

Speaking in an interview, Gambhir said both players would have key roles to play in India’s World Cup campaign and needed enough game time before the major tournament.

He highlighted Pandya’s value as an all-rounder, saying his ability to bat at No. 6 or 7 and bowl up to 10 overs makes him a particularly important player for India.

Gambhir noted that Pandya has not played much cricket since the IPL and could therefore need time to regain his rhythm in the 50-over format.

He suggested that playing some T20 cricket before returning to ODIs could help the all-rounder build up his match fitness.

The India coach said no player should enter a World Cup only half-prepared, stressing that adequate game time and good rhythm would be essential before the tournament.

On Bumrah, Gambhir said both Test and ODI cricket would be important for the fast bowler.

He added that the team management would have to carefully decide the right workload and amount of game time for Bumrah while managing his fitness.

Gambhir said there was very little room for mistakes in a major tournament like the World Cup.

He therefore emphasised careful workload management and proper match preparation for both Pandya and Bumrah to ensure they enter the tournament at their best.