Hardik Pandya India’s Only Genuine All-Rounder, Says Srikkanth; Backs Jadeja for ODI Return
Former India batter and selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth has raised concerns over India’s lack of genuine pace-bowling all-rounders as the team builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
With Hardik Pandya currently working towards regaining peak fitness, India have experimented with several alternatives, including Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy and even fast bowler Harshit Rana.
However, Srikkanth believes none of those options can currently provide the balance Hardik brings to the Indian side.
Hardik Pandya Working Towards Peak Fitness
Hardik is reportedly undergoing a “performance block” programme at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) as part of his preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
The BCCI is reportedly unwilling to rush the star all-rounder back into action and wants him fully fit for the marquee tournament.
Hardik’s ability to contribute as a middle-order batter while also providing crucial overs of pace makes him an important part of India’s ODI combination.
Srikkanth Questions India’s All-Round Options
In Hardik’s absence, India have experimented with Shivam Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy, while Harshit Rana has also been considered for a similar role because of his batting potential.
Srikkanth, however, believes India currently have only one genuine pace-bowling all-rounder.
Speaking on Star Sports, the former India selector said Hardik remains the team’s only complete all-round option. He described Nitish as the next-best alternative who could bat at No. 7 and contribute a few overs.
He was far less convinced about Dube and Harshit being considered genuine all-rounders.
Nitish Kumar Reddy Could Be Hardik’s Back-Up
Srikkanth’s assessment puts Nitish Kumar Reddy ahead of India’s other potential alternatives.
Reddy’s ability to bat in the lower-middle order and contribute with the ball gives India flexibility, although Srikkanth believes he is still some distance away from offering the complete package Hardik provides.
Finding a reliable back-up could become increasingly important as India plan their squad for the 2027 World Cup.
Srikkanth Questions Ravindra Jadeja’s Exclusion
Srikkanth also questioned why veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja appears to have fallen out of India’s ODI plans.
He described Jadeja as a “silent killer” and argued that his performances warrant continued consideration.
Jadeja has not announced his retirement from ODI cricket, and Srikkanth believes he should remain in the selectors’ plans if his performances justify selection.
He also highlighted Jadeja’s contribution during India’s 2023 ODI World Cup campaign and his ability to produce match-winning performances.
India’s All-Rounder Puzzle Ahead of 2027 World Cup
The situation leaves India with an important selection question ahead of the World Cup.
Hardik remains a unique player because of his combination of power-hitting and seam bowling. Keeping him fit could therefore be crucial to India’s plans.
At the same time, developing alternatives such as Nitish could provide valuable insurance should Hardik face further fitness issues.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, India’s management will have to determine not only Hardik’s workload but also which players can provide the right balance around him.
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