Despite Hardik Pandya’s poor IPL season, Suresh Raina remains confident that Pandya will excel, particularly against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup.
Hardik Pandya faced a challenging IPL 2024 season as Mumbai Indians struggled, finishing at the bottom with just four wins. Controversies marred their campaign, starting with Pandya’s contentious captaincy appointment that sparked fan backlash. The season unraveled with Pandya even being booed at Wankhede Stadium.
Hardik’s individual performance mirrored the team’s woes, scoring 216 runs in 14 matches at 18.00 average and 143.04 strike rate, with a top score of 46. Additionally, he took only 11 wickets at an average of 35.18 and an economy rate of 10.75, highlighting a disappointing season.
READ ALSO | WATCH | Hardik Pandya Booed: Rohit Sharma Steps In, Gestures Wankhede Crowd to Calm Down
Despite Hardik Pandya’s struggles in the IPL, he has secured a place in Team India’s T20 World Cup squad, raising concerns about his form. However, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina remains optimistic, believing that Pandya’s past performances for India will overshadow any recent setbacks. Raina expressed confidence that Pandya will shine, especially against Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup, erasing doubts surrounding his form.
“He (Hardik) has done really well (for India). Temporary poor form does not make someone bad. When he will perform well against Pakistan in the World Cup, everyone will praise him,” Raina was quoted as saying by ANI.
READ ALSO | Irfan Pathan Questions BCCI’s Unnecessary Bias For Hardik Pandya in T20 World Cup Squad Selection
Hardik, a member of India’s T20I squad, previously led the team in 2023 during Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s absence. With Rohit back as captain and Pandya as his deputy for the World Cup, India is set to kick off their campaign against Ireland on June 5, with a highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on June 8.
Last Updated on May 20, 2024
Senior Sports Copywriter