Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has received glowing praise from former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, who highlighted Pandya’s remarkable ability to finish games in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). According to Bangar, Pandya is the player who has come closest to replicating former Indian captain MS Dhoni’s iconic finishing style in limited-overs cricket.
Speaking on Star Sports, Bangar said, “In 50-over matches, Pandya has come the closest to replicating MS Dhoni’s role as a finisher. Dhoni had the ability to take games deep, and that influence is clearly visible on Pandya. He’s shown the ability to take matches to the 49th or 50th over and deliver victories. Additionally, he’s capable of rebuilding an innings if the team is in trouble at 30-4. His adaptability to different situations is remarkable.”
Hardik Pandya’s Contributions in Limited-Overs Cricket
Pandya has been a vital player for India in both ODIs and T20Is. In 86 ODIs, he has maintained a strike rate of 110.35 while contributing significantly with the ball, taking 84 wickets at an average of 35.23. His T20I performances have been equally impressive, with a strike rate of 141.55 in 111 matches and 92 wickets at an average of 26.28.
While Pandya is no longer a contender for Test cricket, his all-round abilities have made him indispensable in India’s white-ball squads. His versatility in the lower middle order has provided the team with much-needed stability and firepower.
Handling Captaincy Challenges with Grace
Pandya served as India’s T20I captain for much of 2023, filling in for Rohit Sharma when the latter opted out of the format. However, when the time came to name a permanent T20I captain following Rohit’s retirement from the format, the role was handed to Suryakumar Yadav instead. Pandya also faced another setback when he was removed as vice-captain during the ongoing series against England, with Axar Patel taking up the position.
Despite these challenges, Bangar lauded Pandya for his composed demeanor. “It takes a big heart to accept everything with grace and a smile. His willingness to step aside and pass the captaincy to Suryakumar was truly commendable,” said Bangar. He added, “Every cricketer dreams of leadership, and I believe Pandya will keep hoping for another chance to captain India in the future.”
Hardik Pandya continues to demonstrate his value to Indian cricket with his all-round performances and mature approach to the game, earning admiration from players and experts alike.
