Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has called Hardik Pandya one of the most important players for Team India, describing him as an integral part of the squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025. According to Nayar, Pandya not only contributes with bat and ball but also brings confidence and leadership, which are vital in pressure situations.
Pandya, who played a crucial role in India’s 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, has been included in the Asia Cup squad and is expected to lead the charge as the team’s main all-rounder.
Speaking to Star Sports, Nayar praised Pandya’s rare skill set. “An absolutely invaluable player for Indian cricket—and when you look at world cricket, how many players do you really have who can bowl with the new ball, bowl at the death, deliver four overs consistently, and also play impact knocks against both spin and pace? He’s an absolute game changer,” Nayar said.
He also highlighted Pandya’s personality and presence, adding, “I think more than anything, his biggest strength is his personality. Just sitting there in the dressing room or the dugout, and knowing that when he’s out in the middle, there’salways an assurance that something remarkable can happen.”
Reflecting on Pandya’s contribution under pressure during the T20 World Cup 2024, Nayar said, “We are the current world champions also because of those overs he bowled under pressure. Not only with the bat, but with the ball as well, he has consistently shown his ability to deliver in tough situations.”
Even though Suryakumar Yadav will captain India at the Asia Cup, with Shubman Gill as vice-captain, Nayar believes Pandya’s leadership will still play a key role. “He definitely brings leadership to the group. He will always be a leader, whether he’s the captain or not. And like I said, more than just a cricketer, it’s his personality and the aura he brings to the team that matters a lot to these young players,” Nayar concluded.
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