No Hardik Pandya! This SRH Star Could Be India’s New ODI World Cup X-Factor

India's International Cricket is all set to resume after a long break due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) happening in the country. India will begin with a series against Afghanistan, which includes one test match and 3 ODIs. The management has decided to try all the best options available to them for the ICC World Cup 2027 in South Africa, as it is still 15-16 months away, and that has been clearly observed after the squad announcement of the Indian Team.

The Indian Cricket Team has always relied on an all-rounder, especially a fast-bowling all-rounder in the 50-over format, which helps them in depth in all departments of the game. Hardik Pandya, the best all-rounder in India, played a key role in the previous edition of the World Cup until he got injured. However, this time, management is overlooking him and wants to back Sunrisers Hyderabad, the star all-rounder.

X-Factor: Nitish Kumar Reddy in World Cup 2027?

The SRH star, Nitish Kumar Reddy all rounder has been picked in the India ODI squad for the Afghanistan series, where he is expected to be given all chances to be in the Playing XI. This move comes in as Hardik Pandya's availability is subject to a fitness test, as he has been sidelined from Mumbai Indians matches due to a back injury as well. The Chief Selector, Ajit Agarkar, has also backed him while announcing his name in the ODI squad. He said,

Nitish Kumar Reddy ODI Career

Nitish Kumar Reddy has made a decent start to his ODI career, playing four matches since his debut against Australia in October 2025. He usually bats in the lower order and has scored 100 runs at an average of 33.33, with a strike rate of over 100, showing he can score quickly when needed.

His best performance came against New Zealand in January 2026, where he scored his first half-century (53). Although he hasn’t taken a wicket yet, he has bowled a few overs and kept things under control, showing promise as an all-rounder for India.