Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has put all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer ahead of Hardik Pandya in the contention for Team India's 2022 T20 World cup squad. Venkatesh was impressive with the bat in the last two T20Is against West Indies, and he also picked up a couple of wickets in the last match.

In the second T20I, Venkatesh scored 33 runs in 18 deliveries and then added unbeaten 35 runs off 19 balls in the last T20I match. The way he accelerated in the death overs, his batting ability was acknowledged by Jaffer. 

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Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Jaffer said, "At this point of time, I feel he's a little bit ahead because you don't know Hardik Pandya whether he's bowling now or how fit he is. Obviously how the IPL goes for Hardik Pandya will play a very key role but at this point of time, Venkatesh Iyer is ahead of Hardik Pandya."

Venkatesh came to the limelight with his batting performance in the IPL 2021 for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He was an opener for KKR in the last season, but Team India asked him to bat in the lower-order and he adjusted his game very well.

"I am surprised with how good he's playing as a No. 6 batter. We have seen him as an opener but for him to come out and get adapted so well at No. 6 and finish games is outstanding. Plus, the way he's bowled as well, got a couple of important wickets. He definitely gives [India] an edge going into the World Cup," Jaffer said.

Hardik, currently out of the team, is said to be working on his fitness before returning to the Indian side. The Baroda all-rounder was struggling with his bowling due to fitness issues. 

(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)