India’s ageing World Cup house has a leaking roof named Hardik
India's World Cup team is housed in an aging facility with a leaking roof, despite its regal exterior. The team features several legendary players such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, but also a host of younger talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad who are competing for spots. India has struggled in recent years, losing seven out of their last 15 matches, which is concerning for a team aiming for greatness.
Four of the team's key players will be over 35 by the time the World Cup arrives, raising questions about their stamina. However, the team's balance is crucial and rests heavily on Hardik Pandya, whose fitness is questionable. His recent shin injury ruled him out of the series against Australia and he hasn't played an ODI since the Champions Trophy.
Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy emerges as a potential backup, showing promise in both batting and bowling in Tests but struggling in ODIs. The team is also experimenting with Harshit Rana, a seamer who can bat, as a third pace attack option. The spin department is also in flux, with questions over which players will be available for the South African tour.
The team management will be closely monitoring several players and making necessary adjustments to ensure they have the best chance of winning the World Cup.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 4 other outlets
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- Kohli says 2027 World Cup will be his last for India channelnewsasia.com