Over the last two years, Hardik Pandya has had his fair share of injuries. The flashy Baroda cricketer hasn't been able to bowl regularly in Indian colors or in the IPL.
During India's lackluster performance in the previous T20 World Cup in 2021, he only bowled four overs, highlighting the necessity for an all-rounder who can also contribute with the ball.
This need and Hardik's decision to take time off to get fully fit paved the way for Venkatesh Iyer, who made an impression in the recent home match against the West Indies.
In the third and final T20I of the series, Iyer took two wickets before scoring a quick-fire 35. In his last three T20Is, the Madhya Pradesh batter has two 30-plus knocks and is currently regarded as India's potential finisher.
In addition, he has also contributed with the ball picking two wickets in the third T20I match.
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Will Iyer's rise jeopardize Hardik's position? Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes a fit Hardik will be welcomed with open arms by the Indian team.
"The truth is Hardik is Hardik and when he comes, he will bowl and bat, you really want to welcome him with open arms. I am not saying that because of one doing well, the doors are getting closed for the other," he said on his YouTube channel.
Chopra went on to describe how Hardik and Venkatesh may both be a part of the team.
He said: "It is not necessary that only one out of Venkatesh or Hardik can play, both can play. Just think about it, if you have both Hardik and Venkatesh, Hardik gives you bowling and Venkatesh gives you one or two overs."
The cricketer-turned-commentator also weighed in on Iyer's meteoric rise, noting that the newcomer to the Indian side has made the most of his opportunities thus far.
"If they are your No. 6 and No. 7, suddenly your team will look so much better. Think about Australia, they will be very handy there. But Venkatesh Iyer is doing well currently, he is grabbing his chances with both hands, he is making the most of his opportunities," Chopra said.
"Hardik - as and when he is available, I don't think the team will tell him that Venkatesh is there now. Both can happen, it's not either-or. Both can play together, in my opinion, especially in Australia," he further added.
