Harsha Bhogle cites the contrasting numbers of Hardik Pandya against pace and spin

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is under some serious scrutiny after a string of low scores in the ongoing tour of South Africa. It was not long ago when Pandya was hailed as the next big thing in Indian cricket. After his herculean knock in the Cape Town Test, many even called him the next Kapil Dev. And now, they are critical about their claims. In this backdrop, Harsha Bhogle has tried to analyses Pandya’s game.

In a recent video coverage for Cricbuzz, Harsha Bhogle cited the actual reasons for the dwindling fortunes of the Indian all-rounder. Bhogle, a renowned commentator and an analyst of the game, noted that when Pandya had arrived at the big stage, not many people knew about his talents. Hence, he had the surprise factor going his way.

He used to hit it clean and straight, and that worked in his favor. But now, the teams have noted that his batting dips when it comes to facing the pacers. Pandya averages 41.67 against the spin bowlers and bats with a strike rate of 162.34. On the contrary, his average dips to 27 against the pacers, and the strike rate falls below 100 as well.

Furthermore, Pandya takes about 4.97 delivery per boundary against the spinners. When it comes to the pacers, this number goes up to 9.46. Clearly, the analysts are watching it and hence, the pacers come in to the attack when Pandya arrives at the crease.

Develop his game against pacers

Harsha Bhogle further noted that many players have such careers wherein they start off on high note and then see similar downfalls. It is this stage that defines the character of the player. Bhogle feels that this is the time for Hardik to develop his game. Harsha noted that Pandya has to develop a good pull shot and also work on his ideas against the bouncers.

Also, Bhogle noted that it is unfair to bring in the comparisons with Kapil Dev. One need not go too far. India earlier had someone like Irfan Pathan in a similar role. And so, Hardik, in his abilities, should continue batting well and must play at number 6 to maintain a tempo with his batting and bowling.

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