VVS Laxman, the former Indian test batting stalwart and the mentor of Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL currently, has come out with his view where he stated that the multi-skilled cricketers like Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya will be in demand as the present day game requires players with dual abilities. 

VVS was quoted saying that, "A batsman should be able to bowl and a bowler should be able to bat. Cricketers like the Hardik Pandyas, Krunal Pandyas will be more in demand because irrespective of the format the guys who can do all the three things good will be more in demand,"

He also stressed the importance and reiterated the demand of the modern day cricket where of fielding is a department where every player has to be good in the field.

He said, "Fielding is non-negotiable. Whether you are a batsman or a bowler, you have to be an excellent fielder and you have to be athletic which will help you in running between the wickets. That's how the game has evolved, gone are the days when one focused on one skillset. These days one needs to master the other skills too."

VVS also has pointed out the need for encouragement of sports at the grassroots level for kids in the country by the sports governing bodies. He said, "I think encouragement of sports at the grassroots level is very very important. The government has got funds and it is important to develop infrastructure at grassroots level like international standard grounds besides providing access to qualified and professional coaches,"

(Inputs from TOI)