Hardik Pandya would like to bat at number four ideally: Zaheer Khan

Former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan has said that star all-rounder Hardik Pandya should bat at the number four position as it will be an ideal position for him. The veteran left-arm pacer said that Pandya understands what the team requires and plays according to the situation.

Pandya was in some excellent touch during the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL) as his team Gujarat Titans (GT) went on to win the edition in their very first appearance.  The superstar all-rounder played several match-winning knocks for his team. The right-handed batter is continuing his good touch for the national team as well in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa.

Hardik Pandya is not looking rushed: Zaheer Khan

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Zaheer said, “He would like to be number four ideally. He does understand what the team requires and how he should mould his game. If you lose early wickets, at number five. that’s the situation he thrives upon. Since this IPL, it is very visible that he is enjoying such a challenge. He is not looking rushed. So that’s the beauty of his batting at the moment. And that’s the part I am enjoying. As a batter, if you feel that ‘I am in control and I can change the gears any time I require’, that’s when you get that confidence.”

“When you lose early wickets as a team, you need a temperament like that. Someone who is assured of his ability, but also absorbs pressure which means slowing down. So, if he can maintain this form and bowl, then that’s the best thing for maintaining the team’s balance. So. Rahul Dravid will be very happy, and the Indian team management will be very happy,” he added.

The star all-rounder Pandya will be seen in action during the fifth and final T20I match to be played between India and South Africa. The match will be played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on June 19 (Sunday).