'How long he will bowl we really don't know': Mohammad Azharuddin

Former Indian cricketer and legend Mohammad Azharuddin has expressed concern over star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness level in the near future. 

Hardik Pandya, who was out of action since November last year, made a terrific comeback in the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and impressed all with his all-round show. 

Not only did he lead Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden IPL title in their debut season, but he also emerged as the highest run-scorer for his side. Apart from scoring runs consistently, he also delivered with the ball whenever the team needed him the most. He finished the season with 487 runs in 15 matches, including four fifties and eight wickets. 

"He has the ability, he has done well for the Indian team, but because of the injuries, he was not in the team consistently. He has come back now, he is bowling his four overs. How long he will bowl we really don't know. But we definitely want him to bowl since he is an all-rounder," Azharuddin was quoted as saying in a report by Khaleej Times.

Hardik's best performance came in the summit clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR), where he took charge himself and removed the three big men, Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler and Shimron Hetmyer, to provide the inaugural champions with the mortal blow. While chasing, he scored 34 runs with the bat to take his side one step closer to the victory.

"In the IPL final (against Rajasthan Royals), he completely changed the game, three wickets in four overs, then he scored 34 quick runs. He is a good talent, just needs that consistency," Azharuddin added.

The star all-rounder has been named in the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming South Africa series, starting in Delhi on June 9. It will be intriguing to see if he sustains the same momentum while playing for India.