As the 2025 Asia Cup approaches, former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has shared high praise for Hardik Pandya, calling him an invaluable asset to the team. Nayar, who worked with Pandya during his tenure as India’s assistant coach, emphasized the all-rounder’s pivotal role in India’s white-ball success, particularly in T20 cricket.
Pandya’s versatility, being able to perform both with the bat and the ball, makes him one of the most impactful players in world cricket. He was the cornerstone of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup victory, with his crucial final over against South Africa standing out as one of the defining moments of the tournament.
Pandya’s All-Round Skills Strengthen India
Nayar praised Pandya for his ability to excel in multiple roles, both as a bowler and a batter. “He’s an absolute game-changer,” Nayar said on Star Sports, highlighting Pandya’s unique skill set that allows him to bowl with the new ball, bowl in death overs, and deliver consistent impact with the bat against all types of bowling.
A Personality That Inspires Confidence
Beyond his cricketing abilities, Nayar also highlighted Pandya’s remarkable presence and personality, which gives the team confidence. “Just sitting in the dressing room or the dugout, knowing that when he’s out in the middle, something remarkable can happen,” Nayar explained. Pandya’s influence in the team is not just on the field but in the way he inspires his teammates off it.
Crucial Contributions to India’s World Cup Triumph
Nayar also emphasized Pandya’s crucial role in India’s World Cup success, particularly his bowling under pressure. “We are the current world champions also because of those overs he bowled under pressure,” Nayar said, recognizing that Pandya’s all-round contributions were vital to India’s victory.
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