Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif has caused concern due to Hardik Pandyarecurring fitness issues, questioning the lack of clarity surrounding the all-rounder’s injuries while admitting uncertainty over whether he will still be part of India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.Hardik he recently missed the ODI series against Afghanistan due to injury and has also been ruled out of India’s upcoming 50-over series against England in July. His absence has reignited debates about his long-term fitness, a topic Kaif believes has never been adequately addressed.Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif acknowledged Hardik’s immense value to the Indian team and described him as an irreplaceable all-rounder in the current line-up. However, he admitted that the Baroda star’s injuries make it difficult to predict how long he can continue at the highest level.“I can’t vouch for him. Even I don’t understand his case. He’s such a big match-winner. No one is close to him as an all-rounder in the current run. He knows that too. But his body is fragile. He got injured in 2023 and it wasn’t the same after that. There’s no talk of his injury and any real reasons, though. I don’t know what’s being said or what the official reason is. You tell me if you know. “We only know from sources,” he said.Kaif also criticized the lack of communication regarding Hardik’s fitness status, arguing that fans deserve more transparency whenever a key player is unavailable.“Fans also have a right to know exactly what happened and we need more transparency. This has been the case with Hardik throughout his career. There are always questions about his injury, what exactly happened and why he is missing,” he added.While discussing India’s ODI squad, Kaif also gave his opinion Yashasvi Jaiswalomission from the England squad. The young opener strengthened his case with a century in the final ODI against Afghanistan but was still left out of the 15-man squad.Kaif supported the selectors’ choice Ishan Kishan instead, pointing to the goaltender’s versatility and ability to contribute in multiple roles. He also cited Kishan’s current form and the head coach’s support Gautam Gambhir worked in his favor.“Jaiswal will play Well, Gambhir wants Kishan to be there. There is also that affection. I said it last time. And his form is good, so I agree with the call. Jaiswal will have to wait a bit,” Kaif said.Despite missing out on this opportunity, Kaif remains confident that Jaiswal’s future lies in all three formats for India. For now, however, the youngster may have to remain patient as competition for places continues to intensify ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle.
