Hardik Pandya has pretty relaxed approach towards game of cricket: Lockie Ferguson

Gujarat Titans pacer Lockie Ferguson feels inspired by skipper Hardik Pandya’s philosophy of perceiving the game and playing it “not just to win” but “to entertain”. Ferguson has played a pivotal role for the Titans in their debut season and has scalped eight wickets in five games played so far in IPL 2022.

Ferguson heaped praises on Pandya and his captaincy style, saying he plays the game to entertain the audience, and winning or losing is just a part of it for the skipper. Ferguson opened up about Pandya’s approach to leading the team and said that the skipper brings positive energy into the lot.

“Hardik has a pretty relaxed approach towards the game of cricket and he plays the game to entertain people as much as to win the game. I think that kind of attitude breathes energy and life into the group, and of course, he is leading with his performances which count for a lot,” Ferguson was quoted as per News 18.

“The whole leadership group including vice-captain Rashid (Khan) has also got a relaxed attitude and coaching group of Gary (mentor Kirsten), Vik (Director of cricket Vikram Solanki) and (head coach) Ash (Ashish Nehra) are the same. That explains quite well and it’s enjoyable,” he added.

The 30-year-old Kiwi speedster said that Pandya was the most dangerous T20I batter whom he has ever bowled to. “Hardik has taken to leadership with an open arm but he has shown that one can’t forget how good a batter he is when he gets going. It’s nice to have him in my side as I remember when I was with KKR, in one match, he was hitting sixes for fun,” he explained.

Lockie Ferguson feels Kane Williamson is the calmest and most relaxed skipper he has ever worked with

Ferguson also praised his New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson and said how much he enjoyed playing under him for his national side. He also called out for Eoin Morgan, his former Kolkata Knight Riders captain, recalling the two captain’s calm and composed attitude towards the game.

“During pressure situations, what you need is a relaxed attitude from the skipper. That helps a fast bowler. Time spent with a captain is the key, so in that regard, it is pretty tough to get past Kane (Williamson),” he further added.

Gujarat Titans have been in good form since they made their debut in this edition. Hardik Pandya has led the team to four victories in the five games played and has also played some crucial knocks to mark his comeback. They stand on top of the points table with the most number of points to their name, accounting for eight.