Former Pakistan cricketing legend Wasim Akram has underlined the significance of all-rounder Hardik Pandya to India’s prospects in the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, scheduled to commence on October 5. Akram’s assessment follows Pandya’s impressive performance in the Asia Cup 2023, where he made vital contributions with the ball, including a three-wicket haul in the final. Akram also praised spinner Kuldeep Yadav’s impact and credited the Indian team management for their support as they prepare for the World Cup.
Hardik Pandya, known for his dynamic all-round abilities, played a pivotal role in the Asia Cup 2023, particularly in the final where he dismissed the opposition’s tail-enders with his bowling skills. Pandya’s performance in the tournament saw him claim six wickets at an exceptional economy rate of 3.34. Wasim Akram identified Pandya as India’s primary weapon for the upcoming World Cup, emphasizing the team’s status as one of the favorites to win, particularly with the advantage of playing on home soil.
Wasim Akram stated, “Hardik Pandya is their main weapon in the upcoming World Cup and India are one of the favourite teams to win it. For starters, they are playing at home and we have seen what they can do with the ball.”
Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav emerged as the Player of the Tournament in the Asia Cup 2023, showcasing his prowess with nine wickets in crucial matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Wasim Akram expressed his admiration for Yadav’s performance and highlighted the Indian team management’s role in supporting and selecting the right squad members ahead of the World Cup.
Wasim Akram applauded the Indian think tank for assembling a well-rounded squad, with the likes of Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav contributing significantly to the team’s strengths. As India readies for the ODI World Cup, Akram emphasized the importance of having the right squad in place and praised the team management for their decisions.
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On this, Akram stated: “Kuldeep got wickets as well against the big sides in the Asia Cup. So, it’s a complete side. So, well done to the Indian think tank, which has been supporting these boys and making sure that they have the proper squad before the World Cup.”
With the ODI World Cup on the horizon, India will face Australia in a crucial ODI series. This series serves as both a dress rehearsal and an opportunity for players like Pandya and Yadav to fine-tune their skills and form. The two sides will meet again in their World Cup opener in Chennai, making the series a significant prelude to the global tournament.
