Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar highlighted Hardik Pandya’s value ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, set in the UAE from September 9 to 28. Nayar, who worked closely with Pandya during his development, praised his ability to contribute equally with bat and ball.

Pandya can bowl both with the new ball and at the death while also producing impactful batting displays. His presence is seen as a major boost for India. Pandya was also instrumental in India’s successful T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

“An absolutely invaluable player for Indian cricket—and when you look at world cricket, how many players do you really have who can bowl with the new ball, bowl at the death, deliver four overs consistently, and also play impact knocks against both spin and pace? He’s an absolute game changer,” Nayar said on Star Sports.

“I think more than anything, his biggest strength is his personality. Just sitting there in the dressing room or the dugout, and knowing that when he’s out in the middle, there’s always an assurance that something remarkable can happen,” he added.

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Nayar also underlined Hardik Pandya’s leadership qualities, noting his influence on the group even without the captaincy.

“We are the current world champions also because of those overs he bowled under pressure. Not only with the bat, but with the ball as well, he has consistently shown his ability to deliver in tough situations,” Nayar said.

He definitely brings leadership to the group. He will always be a leader, whether he’s the captain or not. And like I said, more than just a cricketer, it’s his personality and the aura he brings to the team that matters a lot to these young players,” he concluded.