Michael Clarke backs Hardik Pandya to play the 2019 World Cup

A couple of weeks ago, Indian all-rounder, Hardik Pandya featured in a popular talk-show named Koffee With Karan along with teammate KL Rahul. During the show, aired on Sunday, January 6, he made some sexist remarks on women that sparked outrage amongst the cricketing fraternity and the general supporters. Subsequently, the episode had to be removed from the online platform- Hotstar.

Thereafter, Pandya was handed an indefinite suspension by the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA). The 25-year-old apologised a couple of times, but it didn’t turn out enough for him to be forgiven. In the meantime, Michael Clarke, the former Australian player feels that the Baroda cricketer should be a must in the upcoming World Cup owing to his match-winning ability.

“A talented player like Hardik is very necessary for the balance of the side. He can win games alone with his batting and I am confident he will be in that World Cup squad,” the 37-year-old Clarke was quoted as saying in Times Now.

Professional sportspersons are role models

The retired Aussie also talked about earning respect more than earning money. “How much money you have earned is irrelevant because most important thing is to earn and give respect. I think it all starts with how you have been brought up. Respecting every individual is very important. It starts with respecting elders regardless of profession,” the veteran remarked.

Moreover, he talked about the players’ responsibilities, being role-models of many aspiring sportspersons. “Professional sportspersons are role models, recognized and they have a responsibility. Having said that, everyone makes mistakes and one needs to move on and learn from them,” Clarke added.

Recently, CK Khanna, the acting President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sent a mail to the CoA, asking it to lift the suspension on the tainted cricketers until a further enquiry into the matter is done.

[interaction id=”5c40352ff348525bd9473563″]

Get the latest Cricket News and updates, Match Predictions, Fantasy Cricket Tips and lots more on CricTracker.com.