Hardik Pandya will be India's main weapon in upcoming World Cup: Wasim Akram

Star India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has received major praise from legendary Pakistan pacer Wasim Akram following his brilliant spell in the Asia Cup 2023 final on September 17 at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. India outplayed Sri Lanka by ten wickets in the summit clash to clinch their eighth title in the continental championship. 

The 28-year-old was impressive in the championship game, picking three crucial wickets. He sent Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, and Matheesha Pathirana back to the pavilion as India bundled out the defending champions for a paltry 50 runs given the opportunity to bowl first. Earlier, star pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj ripped through Sri Lanka's top and middle order. 

Akram stated that Hardik will be team India's "main weapon" heading into the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup which will be played in India from October 5 to November 19. He also added that Rohit Sharma and Co. will be the favourites to win the title. 

“He (Hardik Pandya) is their main weapon in the upcoming World Cup and India are one of the favourite teams to win it. For starters, they are playing at home and we have seen what they can do with the ball,” Akram told Star Sports.

Kuldeep Yadav got wickets as well against the big sides in the Asia Cup: Wasim Akram

Akram further showered praise on star spinner Kuldeep Yadav for his stupendous performance in the Asia Cup. Given the successful Asia Cup campaign, the 57-year-old also stated that team India ascertained that they have a strong roster.

“Kuldeep got wickets as well against the big sides in the Asia Cup. So, it’s a complete side. So, well done to the Indian think tank, which has been supporting these boys and making sure that they have the proper squad before the World Cup,” he added.