New Delhi: Former Indian batsman… Suresh Raina It has emphasized the need to develop a reliable backup for India. Hardik Pandya Ahead of the next ODI World Cup, pointing to the all-rounder’s repeated fitness issues.“Hardik Pandya has had several injury setbacks, which is a concern. Until the next ODI World Cup, India should have a reliable back-up for him,” Raina said while speaking on JioStar.Pandya faced another injury-hit season in IPL 2026, missing several matches for Mumbai Indians before returning in the team’s final few games.The 32-year-old has now been ruled out of India’s three-match ODI series against Afghanistan after suffering a fresh quadriceps strain.The latest injury comes at a critical juncture as India look to carefully manage Pandya’s workload with next year’s ODI World Cup in mind.He was recently seeking fitness clearance after sustaining back pain during the IPL at the BCCI’s Center of Excellence in Bengaluru.Due to his ability to contribute both with bat and ball, Pandya is one of the most valuable players in India. However, his repeated fitness concerns have once again highlighted the lack of depth in India’s pace bowling all-rounder role.
