'It's a surprise for everyone' - Hardik Pandya on bowling in IPL 2022

Hardik Pandya will have a point to prove in the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and many eyes will be on him. The T20 World Cup 2021 was the all-rounder’s last assignment and he didn’t enjoy a fruitful time. His inability to bowl due to fitness issues earned him massive criticism. As India couldn’t even clear the league stage, many reckoned playing ‘half-fit’ Hardik Pandya was a wrong call.

The 28-year-old subsequently underwent rehabilitation and is aiming to come back with a bang. It must be noted that Hardik has been roped in as Ahmedabad’s captain and hence, added responsibilities will be on his shoulders. Now, the burning question is whether Hardik will bowl in the upcoming mega event? On being asked about the same, Pandya came up with a cheeky response.

My team knows where I stand: Hardik Pandya

“It’s (bowling) a surprise for everyone. My team knows where I stand,” Cricbuzz quoted Hardik as saying. Meanwhile, it was speculated that Hardik might continue his career as a pure batter considering his fitness issues. However, the dasher cleared the air, saying he is determined to continue as an all-rounder.

“It’s been challenging. I’ve always been someone who contributes with the bat, ball and on the field. When I decided I will just bat, I wanted to spend some time on the ground. We all love challenges and I love to fight it out. Criticism is good and it doesn’t really bother me. For me, results do matter but I work hard for the process,” he further said.

Speaking of his future plans, Pandya said his three-dimensional abilities give the team a lot of options. Hence, he wants to continue in that role. The swashbuckler, however, also suggested his batting is enough to help the team.

“I’ve always realised that as an all-rounder I give a lot of different options to the team. I’ll try to work on being an all-rounder and if something doesn’t work out then my batting is always there. But Hardik Pandya combined with both bat and ball, it sounds better than just a batter,” said Pandya further.