Hardik Pandya is the backbone of this Indian team: Mohammad Kaif
"When the team is in trouble, Hardik bails his side out of the situation," said Kaif.
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lavished praise on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya as he deemed the latter as the ‘backbone’ of the national team. Notably, team India is all set to turn their attention towards the crucial Asia Cup final as they cross swords with defending champions Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, September 17.
Check: IND vs SL Live Match Updates, Asia Cup 2023 Final
While previewing the much-anticipated summit clash of the ACC event, former cricketer Kaif heaped praise on Hardik’s involvement during the crucial matches with invaluable contributions with the bat and ball.
“When India was in trouble against Pakistan, Hardik rose to the occasion and scored 87 runs and built a vital partnership with Ishan Kishan. In the second meeting against Pakistan, he got the prized wicket of Babar Azam. So, he is a match-winner. When the team is in trouble, Hardik bails his side out of the situation. When the top-order collapses, Hardik steps up and plays a match winning knock. In my eyes, Hardik Pandya is the backbone of this Indian team,” Kaif told on Star Sports.
Kaif further spoke about Jasprit Bumrah’s return to the setup and his impact in the ongoing Asia Cup which could eventually help the side in the lead-up to the 2023 ODI World Cup.
“Despite playing after a long time due to injury, there were no flaws! He’s (Bumrah) getting the wickets, he’s got the pace, these are really good signs for the Indian team that the players returning from injury are putting up a show, be it Bumrah or KL Rahul. This form of Bumrah’s will really help India in the lead-up to the World Cup,” said Kaif.
Furthermore, Kaif was delighted with Shubman Gill’s batting exploits and shared his thoughts on the stellar performances of the opener in recent times.
Check: Most Runs in Asia Cup 2023
“When you play a multi-national tournament, it is not easy to get the runs. But Shubman Gill was there and played the shots well. He understands how to get maximums or boundaries in a spin-friendly track, how to play the new ball as well as improvise his game towards the fag end of the match. He is turning out to be a terrific player,” he added.
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