Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian batsman, has emphasized the pivotal role of Hardik Pandya in India’s quest to establish dominance in Test cricket. Following Pandya’s stellar performance in India’s recent T20 World Cup triumph, Gavaskar has urged for the all-rounder’s inclusion in the upcoming Test series against New Zealand and Australia later this year.
Pandya, who played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup victory, has been urged by Gavaskar to resume his Test career, highlighting his potential impact as both a batsman and a bowler. “If he starts batting at no. 6 or 7, maybe bowling just ten overs a day, but there with his batting, this Indian team will be pretty much invincible in any country, on any kind of surface,” Gavaskar stated in an interview with RevSportz.
Despite a prolonged absence from Test cricket, Pandya’s recent form and Gavaskar’s endorsement could pave the way for his return to the Test setup. With a packed schedule ahead, including a series against New Zealand in October and a tour of Australia in late November, Pandya’s all-round skills could prove decisive for India.
Gavaskar’s comments come amid discussions about India’s need for a pace-bowling all-rounder, a role Pandya could potentially fill. “I’m hoping that, in these next two months, there will be some effort made to try and convince Hardik Pandya to come back to Test cricket,” Gavaskar expressed, underscoring the significance of Pandya’s role in bolstering India’s Test squad.
Meanwhile, newly-appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir will face his first major challenge as India continues its 2023-25 World Test Championship campaign. Pandya’s resurgence in the T20 format has revived public interest and confidence in his abilities, despite criticism during his IPL 2024 captaincy stint with Mumbai Indians.
As India gears up for a rigorous Test season, the potential return of Hardik Pandya could add a formidable dimension to their squad, aiming to solidify their position at the pinnacle of world cricket.
