Hardik Pandya covers all bases for India, says an impressed Sunil Gavaskar

After he found himself stuck in a cesspool of controversy, nothing apart from cricket would have helped Hardik Pandya to prove his relevance and he did just what the doctored ordered. The Baroda all-rounder eventually played a full ODI match after July last year on Monday against New Zealand and picked two vital wickets.

His suspension was lifted last week and he dashed to New Zealand to make up for the vital time he has lost because of injury and ‘KWK’ controversy in the run-up to the ICC World Cup starting in May.

The Indian team was feeling the 25-year-old’s absence since he is a vital cog in the machine and extends a lot of balance. Although India’s on-field performance wasn’t affected by Pandya’s absence as they won four out of five games this year so far but his presence is still deemed necessary for the Men in Blue in their mission to reclaim the WC.

Pandya impressed in his comeback game

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar welcomed Pandya’s return to the ODI side saying he covers all bases for the side. The all-rounder who faces an inquiry for his controversial remarks on filmmaker Karan Johar’s TV show that led to his suspension along with KL Rahul, didn’t get to bat against the Black Caps. But his bowling figures of 2 for 45 in 10 overs showed that he is in a good shape. Also, his flying catch that led to the dismissal of NZ skipper Kane Williamson in the third ODI showed his utility as an all-round cricketer.

“He was very, very impressive. You know why this team management wants him in the side. He actually fills that little blank that was there. This allows the team to be balanced. He covers all the bases for the team,” Gavaskar told Star Sports.

“He’s bowled a very good line, he has used the bouncers to very good effect. He has been like a live wire on the field. That’s the plus that Hardik Pandya brings to the team. He is such an outstanding fielder. He will get you some impossible catches, get you some terrific run-outs and then with the bat and the ball, he does well.”

Get the latest Cricket News and updates from New Zealand vs India series, Match Predictions, Fantasy Cricket Tips and lots more on CricTracker.com.