India begins 2027 ODI World Cup preparations in England

By Aditya Rao — 14 July 2026 — 3 min read

Planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup

India captain Shubman Gill has indicated that preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, are underway. Discussions regarding squad composition and strategies for conditions in South Africa have already begun, with Gill confirming conversations with Virat Kohli on this topic. These discussions took place during net sessions leading up to the current series.

Gill elaborated on these conversations, stating that they focused on identifying the best team combinations for the conditions expected in South Africa. The discussions also covered potential players who might not currently be in the squad but could contribute in the future, including specific bowlers, all-rounders, and spinners. This strategic planning highlights the team’s long-term vision for the upcoming global tournament.

The captain emphasised the importance of the 50-over format, calling the ODI World Cup the most prestigious of all World Cups. He expressed his personal connection to the format, having grown up watching 50-over cricket, which he considers an integral part of his childhood. Gill firmly believes the format should not be shortened to 40 overs.

ODI format and series importance

Gill also suggested that to make ODI cricket more engaging for both players and fans, multi-nation tournaments like triangular or quadrangular series should be reintroduced more regularly. He recalled the enjoyment of watching and participating in such series in the past, where teams played against different opponents at various venues, which he felt added to the format’s appeal.

The current three-match ODI series against England is seen as a crucial step in India‘s preparation for the 2027 World Cup. Gill, who took on captaincy duties in the ODI format late last year, stated that every series from this point forward will be vital for working out combinations and preparing for the conditions anticipated in South Africa. He stressed that the mindset is to find a combination suitable for the wickets expected there, making the series against England very important.

The team is looking to rebound from recent white-ball performances, which included a 2-0 loss in Ireland and a 4-0 defeat in the T20I series against England. The return of Jasprit Bumrah to the ODI squad after being rested to manage his workload following IPL 2026 has been welcomed by Gill. He expressed hope that Bumrah will perform well in the series and contribute to a series victory.

Squad considerations and challenges

While the top five batting positions, including Rohit Sharma, Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul, appear settled, the all-rounder slots and player fitness remain areas of concern for India. Injuries have affected several players, with Hardik Pandya not being part of the team, and Nitish K Reddy and Harshit Rana also sidelined due to injuries. The form of Kuldeep Yadav is also being monitored.

Gill addressed the significance of experienced players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, referring to them as the backbone of the Indian batting lineup for the past decade. He highlighted their valuable experience and skill, which he believes are pivotal to the team’s success. Their consistent performances across various conditions, tournaments, and occasions were also noted.

The captain acknowledged that the team had aimed to give players like Reddy and Rana more matches before the World Cup to help them settle. He noted the difference between playing three-match series and the 11 matches in a World Cup, emphasizing the need for players to gain experience in high-pressure situations, such as those presented by series against strong teams like England or New Zealand. The next 14 months will be crucial for Gill to establish his leadership in the ODI format.

In other news, Gill extended congratulations to the Indian women’s team for their 270-run victory over England in the first-ever women’s Test at Lord’s, calling it a proud moment.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com