India, June 12 -- Former batter Suresh Raina believes finding a dependable backup for injury-prone all-rounder Hardik Pandya should be a priority for India ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, while also stressing the importance of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in supporting captain Shubman Gill.

Speaking on JioStar's 'Follow the Blues', Raina said India's preparations for the next World Cup must include developing alternatives to Hardik, whose recurring fitness issues remain a concern.

"Hardik Pandya has had several injury setbacks, which is a concern. By the time the next ODI World Cup arrives, India must have a reliable backup for him," Raina said.

Raina identified Nitish Kumar Reddy as a promising option, saying the young all-r...