(Source X)
Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his support for Hardik Pandya following the snub in the selection of India’s T20I captain.
Despite Pandya’s significant contributions during the T20 World Cup, where he showcased his prowess both with the bat and ball, including pivotal performances in the final, the mantle of captaincy was entrusted to Suryakumar Yadav instead.
Reports suggest concerns over Pandya’s injury history played a crucial role in this decision by selectors and team management.
The BCCI’s choice to pass over Hardik Pandya for the T20I captaincy has raised eyebrows, with Mohammad Kaif expressing surprise. The former Indian batsman noted that while Suryakumar Yadav is a commendable pick for captain, he believes the selectors and team management should have supported Pandya, given his previous experience leading T20 teams.
“Hardik has captained the Gujarat Titans for 2 years and in their first year itself, they made it to the final… Hardik has experience captaining the T20I side. He was also the vice-captain at the T20 World Cup. Now, a new coach has arrived, there will be new planning.
“Surya is also a good player, he has been playing for years. He is a no.1 T20 player, I hope he will shoulder the captain’s responsibility well. But, I feel they should have backed Hardik…” Kaif exclusively told IANS.
“Gambhir is the experienced captain and coach… He understands cricket very well. I think ‘Hardik ne aisa koi galat kaam nhi kia ki unko captaincy na mile’ (Hardik has not done anything wrong that he should not get the captaincy),” he added.
Pandya boasts extensive leadership experience, having captained Team India in both white-ball formats previously. He also commanded IPL teams, notably guiding the Gujarat Titans to an IPL trophy in 2022 and steering them to the final in 2023. Despite a less successful stint with Mumbai Indians this year, where he led the team, Pandya has led India in three ODIs and 16 T20Is to date.
