'There Is Only One Hardik Pandya...,' Ex-Indian Opener's Bold Statement On The Star All-Rounder
Hardik Pandya struggled with both bat and ball in T20Is [Source: Twitter]
A crucial cog in India's white-ball setup for the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2023, Hardik Pandya has struggled to hit form lately.
Pandya, known for his aggressive batting and bowling, since the conclusion of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 has failed to perform much for India, as lately as the T20Is against West Indies.
However, former India opener Aakash Chopra believes that the Gujarat Titans' skipper could very well be a game-changer for India. Pandya is the lone all-rounder in India's ODI side, who is assured of a spot in the World Cup squad.
Other candidates include Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, Vijay Shankar and Washington Sundar.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former Kolkata Knight Riders player explained the skillset that Pandya brings to the table for India.
Here's what Chopra said
"Let's establish the fact that how important he is for India. There is only one Hardik Pandya in the country, who can bowl fast, can bowl with the new ball, and in the middle, has the ability to bowl at nearly 140 kph, and then bats and there too has the ability to bat down the order."
"I really think that he could be that game-changer. His doing well is directly related to India doing well. If we have to win the World Cup, the focus will be on the all-rounders' performances, and among them, he is an extremely crucial cog in India's dream of success.”
In 77 ODIs for India, the 29-year-old has scored 1,666 runs, which include ten half-centuries and picked up 73 wickets.
Pandya will next be in action for India in the upcoming Asia Cup 2023, having been rested for Ireland T20Is, which starts on Friday.
 "Vishal Mehra")
