New Delhi: Former Indian fast bowler S. Sreesanth on Friday supported the selection of Hardik Pandya in the T20 World Cup (T20 World Cup 2024) team (Team India), saying that Virat Kohli (Virat Kohli) Also, the presence of this all-rounder will prove to be a good combination while chasing a difficult target.
Questions are being raised over the inclusion of out-of-form Pandya in the 15-member Indian team, but the selectors have taken this decision keeping in mind his past record and his ability to change the scenario of the game quickly with both ball and bat. Also, many people are surprised by his appointment as vice-captain for the ICC T20 World Cup to be held in America and West Indies.
Supporting the decision, Sreesanth, considered one of India’s best outswing bowlers after the Kapil Dev era, said during a discussion on ‘Star Sports’, “Except for this year’s IPL (Indian Premier League), we all Have seen what he is capable of doing on the field. The way he is batting and bowling for the country and he even led the team in a series and won it.”
He said, “Rohit was asked about it and he said that sometimes I am the captain and sometimes not. But this does not change the atmosphere and spirit of the team.” Sreesanth said, “So the good thing is that when Hardik comes to the crease to bat, especially when the team is chasing the target and Virat is at the other end, I think the combination is great.” Pandya last played for India in the ODI World Cup match against Bangladesh in October 2023.
He managed to recover from the ankle injury in time for IPL 2024 and was appointed captain of five-time champions Mumbai Indians in place of Rohit. This decision was also criticized a lot. Talking about Pandya’s bowling, Sreesanth said, “Hardik can bowl well with the new ball or the old ball, especially against Pakistan. But we will play against many different teams, not just Pakistan.”
He said, “So this is an opportunity for Hardik to forget this IPL performance and perform well.” Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody also supported Pandya’s selection in the team, saying that he is much ahead of other contenders. Moody said, “Name any three other players who can play like Hardik Pandya.” An all-rounder who can play in your top six and probably bowl four overs for you.”