“He knows what he needs to do,” Glenn McGrath heaps praise on ‘experienced’ Hardik Pandya

It seems that Hardik Pandya has survived the past couple of turbulent years, and is on course to justify the immense potential he possesses. The Indian all-rounder led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title in his first season as a captain. He has certainly impressed one and all, with his leadership qualities. Hardik ended the season with his best-ever runs tally, scoring 487 runs in 15 innings at an average of 44.27.

Hardik Pandya’s worthy contributions in the IPL saw him earn a recall into the Indian side for the ongoing bilateral series against South Africa. Moreover, after KL Rahul’s last-minute injury, he was also named as the vice-captain of the squad. Now, the former Mumbai Indians all-rounder is set to add another feather to his cap, as he will lead the Men in Blue for a short two-match T20I series against Ireland. 

Once criticised for lengthy injury layoffs and inconsistent performances, the all-rounder seems to be garnering praise from former legends of the game. Australian fast-bowling legend, Glenn McGrath has now heaped praise on Hardik Pandya, and stated that he has the awareness of what needs to be done. 

"Hardik has got so much experience now. He knows what he needs to do. He doesn't need to be told by coaches what he needs to do. He is a quality all-rounder, quality hitter. Some games go well, others don't as well. Overall, he knows what he needs to do," McGrath said.

Hardik Pandya has been in decent form in the ongoing series against South Africa. The swash-buckling batter has chipped in with two handy knocks of 30, and has a strike rate of over 150. However, he has not been able to contribute much with the ball, bowling just four overs in three games so far.