‘Damn impressed with his leadership skills’ - Manoj Tiwary backs Hardik Pandya to become India’s next white-ball captain

Hardik Pandya has been exceptional in his maiden captaincy assignment in the Indian Premier League. The all-rounder has led from the front as Gujarat Titans currently find themselves atop the IPL 2022 team standings with four wins in five games. Hardik hasn’t just delivered in all three departments but his field placements and rotation of bowlers have also been spot on.

With the 28-year-old putting such stellar performances, several fans and experts have come forward to laud him. Former Indian batter Manoj Tiwary is the latest to do so. The cricketer-turned-politician took to Twitter on April 14 and lavished massive praises on the Baroda-born all-rounder. He even backed him to become India’s next captain in white-ball cricket.

Manoj Tiwary lavishes massive praises on Hardik Pandya

“If ever there is a debate on who is going to replace or in competition for Captaining team India in the shorter format then it has to be @hardikpandya7 Yes whatever little I have seen of him in this #IPL as far his leadership skill is concerned, I’m damn impressed with it #RRvGT”, tweeted the former KKR cricketer.

Meanwhile, Hardik was at his all-round best in his last assignment against Rajasthan Royals. Coming to bat at number four, the dasher made a mockery of RR bowlers and scored 87 off just 52 deliveries. As a result, GT posted 192 for four in their allotted 20 overs. He later made a mark with a ball as well, conceding 18 runs in 2.3 overs and also taking a wicket in the process.

As a result, GT clinched the contest by 37 runs. With GT losing just one game so far this season, they must back themselves to comfortably secure a playoff spot. Hardik, who has been enjoying his new role, will have the onus to extend his stellar run. Meanwhile, the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah are currently the frontrunners to become India’s future captain and Hardik might also join that list courtesy of his stellar show in IPL 2022.