Photo via Hindustan Times

Not many in the world have what he can do, says Shubman Gill on Hardik Pandya's importance to India

India's ODI skipper Shubman Gill has praised Hardik Pandya's unique versatility, noting that very few cricketers globally possess the same combination of skills that allows the all-rounder to be deployed effectively with both the new and old ball. Gill acknowledged that Pandya's prolonged absence due to persistent injuries since the 2026 IPL season, including a recent shin setback during the India A series against Australia A, has complicated the team's preparations for the upcoming World Cup.

To manage his recovery, Pandya has shifted his training base to the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, and Gill confirmed that the two have discussed the all-rounder's potential return, which would also resolve concerns regarding the No. 7 and 8 batting positions.

The five-match ODI series against New Zealand, which kicks off on November 4 at Eden Park in Auckland and finishes on November 15 in Mount Maunganui, will also be played without Jasprit Bumrah, who is resting to manage his workload, while Gill and KL Rahul will sit out the final two fixtures to prepare for the subsequent Test matches.

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