I consider Hardik Pandya to be the most impactful match-winner in ICC events: Mohammad Kaif

Irfan Pathan, Commentator & Cricket Expert with IPL official TV Broadcaster, opined on Star Sports Press Room Show, Ticket to World Cup, on Rinku Singh missing the T20 WC squad

Irfan Pathan expressed his disappointment over Rinku Singh not being included in the 15-member T20 WC squad. “Look, I am very disappointed that Rinku Singh is not included in the team because he played a crucial role, specifically in finishing games for his franchise last year. You see, he demonstrated that ability last year. Moreover, when he represented India, he showcased the same skills. So, when you maintain a strike rate of 170+ and an average close to 60-70, and still don't get selected, it's incredibly disheartening. Bishnoi, in my opinion, stands at ICC number 6 in the rankings. 

Admittedly, he may fall behind a master spin champion like Chahal. However, Bishnoi brings additional value with his fielding prowess. Obviously, when assessing this team, I kept these two factors in mind. However, it's crucial that the selected players deliver when the pressure mounts. My concern lies not in the initial stages, but rather in the knockout matches. I want the Indian team to play fearless cricket during those crucial moments, something I felt was lacking in the last two World Cups, both in the 50-over format and the T20 World Cup in Australia.”

Mohammad Kaif spoke on whether he is happy with the team. “Yes, 100%. It's a very balanced side. However, it's crucial to understand that this isn't the IPL. In the IPL, you have 14 league matches, if you lose games, you can always come back and win the trophy. But, the World Cup format is different; weaker teams face off in the initial stages. Suddenly, you enter into the semi-finals against formidable opponents like Pakistan or England. To win the trophy, you must triumph in two significant matches. The question is, are we prepared for those decisive moments? Historically, we haven't excelled in such situations. This poses a real challenge for Rohit Sharma and the team.” 

Mohammad Kaif spoke about Hardik’s form in World Cups, “I consider Hardik Pandya to be the most impactful match winner in ICC events, surpassing even Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav. While Suryakumar Yadav has also participated in ICC events, his record is rather average. Let me explain why I hold this view. Recall the India vs Pakistan matches. In Melbourne, Virat Kohli scored 82 runs, but it was Hardik Pandya who forged a crucial 40-run partnership and took three wickets. In the Asia Cup, during the match against Pakistan, Hardik Pandya showcased his finishing prowess by delivering in the final over against Nawaz, rescuing the team after Dinesh Karthik and Jadeja were dismissed. Despite his current form, his track record in ICC events speaks volumes. It's understandable that his recent captaincy role for Mumbai Indians may have posed some challenges. 

Despite recent challenges, Hardik Pandya has gained captaincy experience with Gujarat Titans, leading them to victory in the inaugural edition and reaching the final in the subsequent one. His all-round abilities bring crucial balance to the team, consistently contributing wickets with his bowling. We're discussing the most significant upcoming event, facing formidable teams like Australia, Pakistan, and England, where players like Hardik Pandya become indispensable. However, it's pertinent to consider his mental state, as you rightly pointed out. Nevertheless, the selectors have shown faith in him by appointing him as vice-captain due to his past leadership roles, including captaining the 2016 T20 team. This decision reflects the selectors' support for a proven match winner.”