‘He gives pure entertainment’: Virender Sehwag lauds Hardik Pandya’s match-winning knock against Bangladesh
2024-06-23
Hardik Pandya's Remarkable Comeback: From Boos to Cheers
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has made a remarkable comeback, transforming from a player who was once booed at stadiums during the IPL to a true hero of the Indian team. Even former Indian cricketers like Virender Sehwag, who did not initially have Pandya in his team for the T20 World Cup, have now sung the praises of the 30-year-old's all-round skills.
Pandya's exceptional performances with both bat and ball have been the driving force behind his recent success. In a crucial match, he was adjudged the man of the match for his outstanding contributions. Batting at a crucial juncture when the team was in trouble at 108/4, Pandya guided the Men in Blue to a formidable total of 196 in their 20 overs, scoring a blistering 27-ball half-century in the process. With the ball, Pandya struck early, dismissing Litton Das in the 5th over to set the tone for the team's victory.
Sehwag's Praise for Pandya's Entertaining Style
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag, who had previously been critical of Pandya, has now embraced the all-rounder's remarkable transformation. Sehwag acknowledged that he had missed the Hardik Pandya who could score 50 runs off just 27 balls, stating, "And we miss this Hardik Pandya. The one who scores 50 runs on 27 balls. He is not the same Hardik Pandya who scores 30 runs on 30 balls and then accelerates. He is the perfect Hardik Pandya who gives pure and pure entertainment."Sehwag further elaborated on Pandya's captivating style, saying, "But he gives pure entertainment. When he walks, he gives entertainment to the audience. That's a special thing about him. They don't need to feel that he is playing in a hurry. He hits a clean hit. So they enjoy watching Hardik Pandya play."
Pandya's Versatility and Strike Rate Praised
The former Indian batter also highlighted Pandya's ability to score quick singles, using the term "Sone pe suhaga" (icing on the cake) to describe this aspect of his game. Sehwag said, "I enjoy watching him play. When he used to come, he used to play like this. Yes, absolutely. And when he walks, it's fun. If he could score a run, it is like 'Sone Pe Suhaga'. I always say this. And that too on fewer balls like 27 balls. He bats at a strike rate of 180-90."Pandya's versatility and ability to score runs at a rapid pace have made him a valuable asset to the Indian team. His captivating performances have not only won him the admiration of fans but also the respect of his peers, including former cricketers like Sehwag.
Pandya's Redemption and Newfound Appreciation
Hardik Pandya's remarkable comeback from being booed at stadiums to becoming a true hero of the Indian team is a testament to his resilience and determination. The all-rounder's exceptional performances with both bat and ball have earned him widespread acclaim, with even former cricketers like Virender Sehwag, who were once critical of him, now singing his praises. Pandya's captivating style of play, his ability to score runs at a rapid pace, and his versatility have made him an invaluable asset to the Indian team, and his newfound appreciation among fans and experts alike is a well-deserved recognition of his talent and hard work.