As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 countdown intensifies, cricket experts and enthusiasts dissect various aspects of India’s preparations for the quadrennial event. Aakash Chopra, a former Indian opener and renowned cricket analyst, has spotlighted the pivotal role of Hardik Pandya in India’s World Cup campaign. With unique attributes that make him a seam-bowling batting all-rounder, Pandya’s presence holds the potential to be a game-changer for the Men in Blue.
The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, set to take place in India from October 5 to November 19, promises to be a grand spectacle. Pandya’s versatility sets him apart as the only seam-bowling batting all-rounder likely to feature in India’s squad. In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra underscored Pandya’s distinctive skill set that includes fast bowling, both with the new ball and in the middle overs, along with his batting prowess.
Chopra’s assessment highlights the rarity of Pandya’s combination of skills in the Indian cricket landscape. Not only can he contribute significantly with the ball by delivering speeds close to 140 kmph, but he can also be a potent force with the bat, showcasing his ability to finish innings and perform under pressure.
Chopra explained, “Let’s establish how important he is for India. There is only one Hardik Pandya in the country, who can bowl fast, with the new ball and in the middle, at nearly 140 kph, and then bats and there too can bat down the order.”
The former Indian opener emphasized the crucial role that Pandya could play as a potential game-changer in India’s World Cup campaign. Chopra’s belief stems from the correlation between Pandya’s performance and India’s success. The all-rounder’s contributions will be instrumental in determining the team’s fortunes, especially in a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup.
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He elaborated, “I think that he could be that game-changer. His doing well is directly related to India’s doing well. If we have to win the World Cup, the focus will be on the all-rounders’ performances; among them, he is an extremely crucial cog in India’s dream of success.”
Pandya’s ODI statistics further bolster his significance to the team. He has consistently added value with the bat with 1666 runs in 58 innings at an average of 33.32 and a strike rate of 112.03. His bowling credentials are equally commendable, having taken 73 wickets in 72 ODI innings at an acceptable economy rate of 5.59.
