India lost the second T20I in Cuttack to South Africa by 4 wickets, and they now have their backs against the wall in the five-match T20I series. The Rishabh Pant-led side was thrashed by Temba Bavuma and Co., raising concerns about the side's competence.
India not only lost the first game despite scoring 211, but they also failed to keep South Africa's batters in check despite starting well with the ball.
Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg believes that India's issues begin at the top and that Rishabh Pant should not be captaining the team.
After Akshar Patel batted above Dinesh Karthik in the Cuttack T20I, Pant's captaincy came under fire from supporters.
"Hardik Pandya should be captain of this T20 team in front of Rahul. He proved his worth in the IPL. He wants those tough moments when the team’s back is against the wall. He wants to go out there and deliver, whether it’s with a bat or ball," said Hogg in a video on Instagram.
Hardik Pandya, according to Hogg, is one of the few players in the world of his calibre who can lead from the front by taking on difficult situations.
"The other night (1st T20I), he came in during those final overs and was able to find the boundary from ball one. Not too many people can do that. And he can go up and do the job at the top of the order if they lose early wickets as well. He is the most valuable T20 cricketer going around in world cricket right now," Hogg added.
In the third T20I in Vizag, India will look to get back on track. The Indian line-up is set to change, as several Indian Premier League stars are part of the squad.
