Irfan Pathan, an ex-Indian cricketer, frankly discussed Hardik Pandya’s part in India’s squad.
India will soon declare their T20 World Cup team. Many think Hardik Pandya will certainly be included, as he brings balance.
However, Irfan believes the all-rounder should be assessed on his performances for India rather than only the IPL. He believes Hardik should not receive any preferential treatment.
On ‘Star Sports Press Room’, Irfan remarked of Hardik Pandya:
“Indian cricket needs to make it clear that they should not give him that much priority as they have given him so far, because we still haven’t won the World Cup.
“And if you think you are a primary all-rounder, you need to make that kind of an impact at the international level. We are getting confused between the IPL performances and the international performances.”
Irfan Pathan
Hardik’s injury occurred during the 2023 World Cup match against Bangladesh. While fielding, he fell awkwardly, twisting his left ankle severely. Since then, he hasn’t played for the Indian team.
Hardik Pandya cannot pick and choose: Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan also believes that Indian cricket should not let Hardik Pandya to determine when he is ready for selection. He used the Australian squad as an example, emphasizing the importance of the team above individuals.
Pathan stated:
“First of all, he needs to play throughout the full year. He cannot pick and choose. Stop giving preferences to individuals, if you do that, you will not be winning major tournaments.
Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan added:
“What Australia has been doing for many years is that they are actually preferring the team game. If you don’t do that, you will not win big tournament.”
Irfan Pathan
In nine IPL 2024 games, Hardik has scored 197 runs and taken four wickets at a costly economy rate of 11.95.