Hardik Pandya’s WC Hopes Over as MS Dhoni’s Close Aide Confirms 2027 World Cup Comeback

The much-anticipated ICC ODI World Cup 2027 is approaching sooner and the Indian team is preparing well for the marquee event. India will play an ODI series against Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand in the future as a part of preparation for the ICC event. Meanwhile, India's star all-rounder is eyeing the No. 8 spot in the team ahead of the World Cup 2027.

The name of the all-rounder is Shardul Thakur, who has mainly represented India in the Test format but has still not lost hope to be a part of the ODI team. Despite not being a part of the senior team, Shardul is one of the best all-rounders in India and can be a useful asset for the team.

Will Shardul Thakur Become Hardik Pandya Replacement for World Cup?

Shardul Thakur has been finding it difficult to get into the ODI team recently. With Hardik Pandya in the team, Shardul's position is not fixed. However, the all-rounder has revealed that he is eyeing a return and is targeting the No. 8 position in the team for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027.

While Shardul has been able to find a place in the T20I squad, he is still trying his best to make way in the ODI team. With Hardik Pandya's presence, it's difficult to bring in another all-rounder in the same playing 11. However, Hardik is injury-prone which gives Shardul an opportunity to be a part of the squad. Moreover, Axar Patel has been doing great in the team, making it difficult for Shardul to find a place in the team. However, he can act as Hardik Pandya ODI replacement for World Cup 2027.

"The ODI World Cup is in South Africa, so there might be an opening for a bowling all-rounder at No. 8, so I am eyeing that spot," he said. “In terms of preparation, I am in such a position that tomorrow if I am asked to play international cricket, I am ready.”

Shardul Thakur's Current Assignment

Shardul is currently leading the Mumbai domestic cricket team in the Ranji Trophy 2025. While he is aspiring to play in the World Cup, the ongoing Ranji season hasn't been great for him yet. He has played in two matches and has taken just three wickets and scored 38 runs. It will be important for him to keep playing matches and performing as well to come in the eyes of the selectors.

“What is important for me is to keep playing matches and perform. Eventually, to get back to the Indian team, I also need to keep having those match-winning performances, which will eventually help in selection,” Shardul said on Tuesday.

Will Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma Play ICC World Cup 2027?

Meanwhile, the legendary duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma played brilliantly against Australia in the final ODI on October 25. Both the Goats of cricket made a positive move to be a part of India's ODI World Cup 2027 squad. Moreover, Rohit's childhood coach has confirmed that he will play in the World Cup but there is no confirmation from Kohli.

The 38-year-old has become the second highest run-scorer in the history of ODI cricket and if he continues to play for the next two years, he will have a chance of breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record to become the highest run scorer in the ODI history.