‘He gives a lot of balance’ – Sanjay Bangar highlights Hardik Pandya’s importance

Ahead of the eagerly-anticipated final of the Asia Cup 2023, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar highlighted the balance which Hardik Pandya brings to the Indian team. Notably, India will square off with co-hosts and defending champions Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, September 17 for the coveted title. 

Bangar highlighted that the setup appears balanced with the inclusion of star all-rounder Hardik. In addition to this, he elaborated how Hardik shouldering the responsibility of third seamer has worked in India’s favour in the lead up to the 2023 ODI World Cup.

"He (Hardik Pandya) has matured a lot over the years. He had some setbacks in terms of his fitness but he has now worked hard to reach where he is now. He has shouldered the responsibilities very well, and is captaining India in T20s. He gives a lot of balance to the team being an all-rounder," Bangar was quoted as saying by India Today.

"We have one of the best attacks going into the World Cup. We have two fine new ball bowlers in (Jasprit) Bumrah and (Mohammed) Siraj, and then there is the experienced (Mohammed) Shami. Kuldeep (Yadav) has so many variations, as he offers a wicket-taking option. (Ravindra) Jadeja too is around. As we spoke earlier, Hardik does give India a wonderful option with the ball. Overall, I think India has a strong and complete bowling line-up going into the World Cup,” he added.

Check: Most Runs in Asia Cup 2023

In the ongoing ACC event, Hardik has claimed three wickets in four outings and scored 92 runs in two innings, compiling scores of 87 and five runs, respectively. Considering that Hardik has been named the vice-captain of the setup for the marquee ICC event, he will look to put his best foot forward and contribute during the matches.

Hardik, who was rested in the final Super Four match against Bangladesh, is likely to make his way back in the XI for the summit clash. Meanwhile, India beat Sri Lanka by 41 runs in a low-scoring affair in the Super Four stage and will be gunning to replicate their performance in the final to clinch the trophy.

Check: IND vs SL Live Updates, Asia Cup 2023 Final