Former Indian Fast Bowler S Sreesanth and Australian All-Rounder Tom Moody have backed Hardik Pandya's inclusion into the T20 World Cup squad, citing he is a multi-dimensional Cricketer, and has the potential to win a game on his own through his dynamic contributions both with bat and ball.
Sreesanth on previous occasions too has backed Hardik Pandya whenever his form has come under the scanner.
"We have seen what he can do on the field... The way he's been batting and the way he's been bowling for the country, he even led the country in one series and we won,'' Sreesanth said during a discussion with Star Sports panel.
Pandya's selection came under the scanner due to a dip in form in the ongoing Tata IPL 2024, Hardik Pandya has been in the headlines for a long time now, he underwent treatment on his ankle and then was named as the Captain of the Mumbai Indians replacing Rohit Sharma who led MI to 5 IPL Titles, which garnered a huge backlash from the fans. Despite all the mess Sreesanth believes that Hardik Pandya is the key to delivering the goods for India in the T20 World Cup.
"So, It's one thing good thing when Hardik Pandya comes in and bats, especially when he is chasing and Virat Kohli on the other side, I think the combination they create is great", quipped Sreesanth.
Tom Moody echoed Sreesanth's statements, "Name me three other people who can do what Hardik Pandya is doing, that's the bottom line, Moody quipped.
Moddy supported Team India's decision to select Hardik Pandya in the World Cup squad recognizing the skills that he possesses.
Moody further stated, "I think he stands head and shoulders above competing for that one spot". I think he (Chief Selector) Ajit Agarkar that this is the case and we have to give him a longer rope with regards to his recovery, with regards to his form and everything else because he's a very precious commodity in this country", Moody affirmed requesting to patient with Hardik in this recovery process.