India, June 20 -- Former India batter WV Raman has backed Hardik Pandya to become one of India's most important players for the 2027 ODI World Cup, but made it clear that the all-rounder's value will depend heavily on whether he can stay fit enough to bowl in the 50-over format.

Speaking to PTI Videos in an exclusive interview, Raman said Hardik gives India a rare kind of balance because of his ability to bat in the middle order and also operate as a genuine bowling option.

"I believe that he can be a terrific cricketer for the Indian team," Raman said, while assessing Hardik's place in India's long-term ODI plans.

Hardik is currently not playing in the ODI series against Afghanistan, despite initially being named in the squad. Raman p...