Mohammad Kaif expressed faith in Hardik Pandya’s ability to deliver for India in the T20 World Cup.
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has backed the all-rounder Hardik Pandya, despite Pandya’s underwhelming performance in the IPL 2024. Kaif believes Pandya’s past heroics in ICC events make him a crucial player for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Hardik Pandya’s recent form with the Mumbai Indians (MI) has been a cause for concern. He has only managed 197 runs and 6 wickets with a high economy rate of 11. However, Kaif highlighted Pandya’s ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure ICC tournaments.
“I consider Hardik Pandya to be the most impactful match winner in ICC events, surpassing even Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav,” Kaif declared on Star Sports Press Room, as quoted by Sportskeeda.
To support his claim, Kaif referenced two key performances by Pandya against arch-rival Pakistan. “In the India vs. Pakistan match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Virat Kohli scored a brilliant 82 runs, but it was Hardik Pandya who stitched together a crucial 40-run partnership and picked up three wickets,” stressed Kaif.
Kaif further emphasised Pandya’s finishing prowess by mentioning his last-over heroics against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. “Hardik rescued the team after Dinesh Karthik and Jadeja were dismissed,” Kaif noted.
Kaif’s unwavering support comes despite the criticism Pandya has faced as the captain of the Mumbai Indians. In the T20 World Cup, Pandya will be the vice-captain, leading India’s charge in the Caribbean and the USA.
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While some question Pandya’s current form, with the T20 World Cup approaching, Pandya will look to prove his doubters wrong and justify Kaif’s confidence by replicating his past heroics on the international stage. As of now, the MI skipper will be next seen facing KKR on May 3rd in the IPL 2024.
Last Updated on May 2, 2024
