IND VS SA: Sunil Gavaskar says Hardik Pandya will be the game-changer for India

IND VS SA: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes India all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be a game-changer for Team India in T20Is in the upcoming games. The former batting legend even wants the all-rounder to bowl with the new ball in a few games as well. However, Hardik was left out of the team due to his fitness-related issues after the T20 World Cup 2021. But he was appointed the captain of the Gujarat Titans (GT) captain and led the team to their maiden IPL title as well. Want to bet on cricket on the move? Discover India’s best-betting sites here on our site.

During a discussion on Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar stated that Hardik Pandya is a key player in Team India. The cricketer-turned-commentator said: “I think he is going to be the game-changer for India, more often than not, in all the matches that are due to come, not just the World Cup but every single match that India plays, whether he bats at No. 5, whether he comes into the bowl at first change or second change. Sometimes I will actually want to see him with the new ball.”

However, Hardik bowled with the new ball a few times for the Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2022. But, he is unlikely to do so for Team India, considering the vast options they have to bowl with the new ball as well unless they try a different thing and look to get one over from the sixth bowler also.

IND VS SA: Graeme Smith Disagrees with Gavaskar’s Opinion

On the other hand, Graeme Smith was also asked if Team India needs Hardik Pandya the finisher more than Hardik the bowler. The former South African skipper replied: “No, I disagree. You need the finisher as well but I think the all-around package of Hardik Pandya gives India options in selection. It might give you the option of playing the extra spinner or a bowler less and strengthen your batting and going into the World Cup, I think having him as a full-blown all-rounder is key to the balance of India’s team.”

However, it is also noteworthy that Team India’s balance certainly went wrong when Hardik Pandya was out due to injury. They tried the likes of Venkatesh Iyer as batting all-rounders but it didn’t work much. It will be interesting to know how Hardik will play in the ongoing series. Here’s the most reliable source of VIP betting tips created to help Indian punters get the most out of their cricket wagers.