BCCI worried whether Rohit Sharma can stay fit till 2027 ODI World Cup
As the ODI World Cup approaches, concerns are rising regarding Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya's physical condition. Despite their inclusion in the Afghanistan series, the BCCI is wary of their effectiveness in the 50-over game. The selectors are urgently seeking information on Rohit's overall fitness and Hardik's bowling readiness, emphasizing the necessity for backup opening batsmen.
NEW DELHI: The lead-up to Tuesday’s selection meeting was hectic. As the selectors prepared the roadmap for next year’s ODI World Cup in South Africa, they were in a quandary over Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya’s fitness issues. While the duo was eventually picked for the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan subject to fitness, TOI has learnt that the BCCI is apprehensive about their ability to play the 50-over format at an optimum level.
It is understood that while the selectors, the team management and BCCI are concerned about Hardik’s ability to bowl 10 overs at full tilt, they are more apprehensive about Rohit lasting the distance till the World Cup in Oct-Nov next year. The selectors sought Rohit’s fitness reports as he did not play in the IPL for three weeks due to a hamstring injury. “Rohit didn’t report to the BCCI’s centre of excellence (CoE) for those three weeks.
He has become lean but there are concerns about his body being able to take the load of high-performance sport. He has to field for 50 overs. ODI cricket doesn’t have the option of an Impact Player like IPL.
Body takes time to heal when you are so close to turning 40,” a BCCI source said. “Hardik was not communicated about fitness concerns till 48 hours before the selection meeting. He hasn’t played for Mumbai Indians since May 2.