Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is probably enjoying the best time of his career at the moment as he has made an impressive comeback after dealing with injuries for the past year or two.
Despite not having any captaincy experience, Hardik Pandya excelled in his role as Gujarat Titans (GT) captain with sheer brilliance, and the franchise will be preparing for the IPL 2022 finals, after becoming the first team to make it to the playoffs.
Pandya also showed his fitness during the tournament, as he not only batted at no.4 and anchored the GT lineup but has shown that he can bowl his full quota of 4 overs when needed without the scare of any injury.
Given his brilliant performance both as captain and all-rounder, Pandya deserves to be rewarded with the Team India captaincy. There are reports that Pandya is likely to be named India captain for the Ireland tour next month.
Since the England tour is also lined up at the same, a second-string Indian team will travel to Ireland for the two-match T20I series in June and Pandya could be the captain of the touring side.
As reported by InsideSport, a member of the selection committee revealed: “Hardik has been impressive. What is more satisfying is that he has become a very responsible player as a captain. He is certainly in the scheme of things for the captaincy role for the Ireland tour.”
In 14 matches this season, Hardik has aggregated 453 runs at an average of 45.30. He has also bowled a fair amount of overs, picking up wickets on occasions too.
The official signed off by saying, “See, it’s still too early to make any announcements. Hardik is one of the names but a decision will be taken only during the South Africa series. What’s important is that he remains fit and in form. He is a very crucial member of the squad.”
