Raina urges to groom Hardik backup, says Rohit-Kohli’s experience vital

Former batter Suresh Raina believes finding a dependable backup for injury-prone all-rounder Hardik Pandya should be a priority for India ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, while also stressing the importance of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in supporting captain Shubman Gill.

Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Follow the Blues’, Raina said India’s preparations for the next World Cup must include developing alternatives to Hardik, whose recurring fitness issues remain a concern.

“Hardik Pandya has had several injury setbacks, which is a concern. By the time the next ODI World Cup arrives, India must have a reliable backup for him,” Raina said.

Raina identified Nitish Kumar Reddy as a promising option, saying the young all-rounder has made significant strides in both departments. “His batting has become more solid. He bowled with good pace and control in the IPL, and his fitness has also held up well. The team management will need to manage his workload carefully and give him consistent opportunities,” he said.

The former left-hander also backed Rohit and Kohli to play a crucial role in India’s World Cup campaign, saying their experience in high-pressure ICC events would be invaluable for Gill. “Both are proven run-scorers in ICC World Cups. They have won ICC trophies and know how to handle pressure in knockout games. For Shubman Gill, captaining India in a World Cup, having Rohit and Virat alongside him will be a huge advantage,” Raina said.