IPL 2022: Best XI of players based on performance in playoffs

5. Hardik Pandya (C)

Hardik Pandya was not only a fantastic leader throughout IPL 2022 but also contributed with both, bat and ball during the course of the playoffs. The Indian all-rounder led Gujarat Titans to IPL glory, after thoroughly dominating the season, right from the onset.

He scored a quickfire knock of 40 runs in the seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 1, and also chipped in with a couple of overs. Hardik also managed to pick up the key wicket of Devdutt Padikkal at a crucial juncture in the game. In the final, he was awarded the player of the match, for his all-round performance.

The skipper constructed a well-made innings of 34 runs, and picked up three wickets in his four-over spell. Moreover, his wickets included some big fishes in the form of Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson and Shimron Hetymer. The wicket of Jos Buttler really turned around the game for Gujarat, given that Rajasthan lacked firepower in their lower middle-order.