Asia Cup 2022 | Hardik Pandya is the only player in squad who is proving that balance: Aakash Chopra
India Today
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra heaped praise on Hardik Pandya, saying that without the all-rounder in the squad the plans made by the team will fall apart.
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has claimed that Hardik Pandya is the only player who is proving the balance to the team and without him in the side, all the well-laid plans will fall apart.
2022 has been one of the best years for Pandya as he first led Gujarat Titans to the IPL title in the franchise's maiden season. This was followed by impressive outings against South Africa and Ireland, against whom he was selected as the captain of the Indian team for the first time in his career.
The all-rounder carried his good form into the tour of England and against the West Indies. A welcome relief for India was the fact that the 28-year-old started bowling once again and has also been effective with the ball in hand.
Talking to Star Sports, as quoted by News 18, Chopra said that Pandya is the only player proving the balance in the team and without him, the plans would fall apart. The former cricketer also went on to claim that while replacements can be found for the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, the same cannot be said about Pandya.
“It’s an insurance policy (on Hardik bowling 4 overs). He is performing very well. No doubt about that. But be mindful of one thing. Hardik Pandya is the only player in that squad who is proving that balance. Without him, all the well-laid plans will fall apart. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, even Jasprit Bumrah you can manage to find a replacement for them. But if Hardik Pandya is not there you cannot make that XI," said Chopra.
Chopra also went on to say that India should use Pandya judiciously with the ball during the Asia Cup.
