Is there anyone like Hardik Pandya in the Indian team? Sanjay Bangar thinks not!
Synopsis
Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar praises all-rounder Hardik Pandya as unique ahead of the T20I series against South Africa. With his return from injury, Pandya's role is deemed crucial for India's preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026. Discover why Bangar believes no player can match Pandya's impact on the team.
Key Takeaways
Hardik Pandya is regarded as a unique asset to the Indian cricket team.
His return from injury is pivotal for upcoming T20I matches.
Sanjay Bangar emphasizes the necessity of managing Pandya's workload.
India's preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026 are underway with this series.
Bangar believes no other all-rounder can match Pandya's skill set.
New Delhi, Dec 9 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar emphasized the significance of all-rounder Hardik Pandya as the T20I series against South Africa approaches, stating that there is no one comparable to him in the team.
After being sidelined for two months due to a quadricep injury incurred during the Asia Cup, Pandya is making his comeback to the national squad and is expected to be part of the playing XI for the upcoming T20Is against South Africa. This series marks the beginning of India's preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, with the first match scheduled to take place in Cuttack.
“Consider all the all-rounders present in world cricket today. Does England have a substitute for Ben Stokes? No. In both one-day and Test formats, there is no alternative for Ravindra Jadeja. The same holds true for Hardik Pandya. He can secure a position in the top five solely based on his batting abilities. Additionally, he could rank among the top three seamers in any team if he focused exclusively on bowling,” Bangar expressed to JiosStar.
“To be that caliber of all-rounder, one must justify their spot through both batting and bowling. There is no other player like Hardik Pandya in the Indian lineup,” he further stated.
Regarding the management of Pandya's workload, Bangar indicated that he expects the all-rounder to participate in the first three of the five T20Is against the Proteas.
“We need to assess how he manages. Competing in the SMAT (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy) differs from the intensity of international matches. The team management must effectively oversee the workload of crucial players like him. If necessary, we should take similar precautions for Hardik. A fit Hardik Pandya enables the team to utilize its preferred combination, especially given our spin options. Therefore, his presence is critically important,” he concluded.
Point of View
Hardik Pandya's return to the Indian team comes at a crucial time as they gear up for significant international competitions. His unique skill set as an all-rounder not only enhances the team's performance but also offers strategic advantages. The management's careful approach to his workload is essential to maximize his impact. This situation illustrates the importance of maintaining a balanced and fit team ahead of major tournaments, reflecting the nation's unwavering support for cricket.
NationPress
8 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Hardik Pandya suffer?
Hardik Pandya sustained a quadricep injury during the Asia Cup, which kept him out of action for two months.
When does the T20I series against South Africa start?
The T20I series against South Africa is set to begin on Tuesday.
Why is Hardik Pandya considered unique in the Indian team?
Sanjay Bangar believes Pandya's exceptional skills as an all-rounder make him irreplaceable in the Indian squad.
How many T20Is will Pandya play against South Africa?
Sanjay Bangar anticipates Hardik Pandya playing in the first three of the five T20Is against South Africa.
What is the significance of Pandya's role in the team?
Pandya's presence is crucial for India's strategy, allowing for a balanced team composition, especially with spin options.
