Hardik Pandya has consistently demonstrated why he is considered one of the premier all-rounders in white-ball cricket. In the fourth T20I against England, he delivered a rapid innings of 53 runs, contributing significantly to India's total of over 180 runs. Ultimately, his performance was a key factor in securing a 15-run victory for the home team. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes that there is no other player in the nation comparable to Hardik Pandya, asserting that he serves as the "backbone" of the Indian squad.

At 31 years of age, Hardik has experienced a tumultuous journey over the past two years. He was appointed captain of the Mumbai Indians before IPL 2024, a decision that was met with discontent from fans, leading to him being booed at the Wankhede Stadium. Nevertheless, Hardik transformed the sentiments of those same fans into support by guiding India to victory in the T20 World Cup.

There were widespread expectations that Hardik would be named the T20I captain following Rohit Sharma's retirement from the format. However, Suryakumar Yadav was ultimately chosen for the role, leaving Hardik without even the vice-captaincy position on the team.

Kaif speculates that Hardik may feel disappointed about not being granted the captaincy, especially given his commendable leadership record in the IPL.

"During IPL 2024, Hardik Pandya faced significant criticism; fans expressed their discontent at the Wankhede Stadium. He refrained from voicing his struggles. This is the same player who bowled the final over in the T20 World Cup final, leading India to victory and shedding tears of joy. He maintained his composure even when the Mumbai Indians were underperforming," Kaif remarked in a video shared on his X account.

"He sustained an injury in Pune during the 2023 ODI World Cup, and there was no suitable replacement for him. While Mohammed Shami performed admirably, the team was left with only seven batters and four bowlers, lacking an eighth batter. Hardik Pandya is indeed the backbone of this team; his absence leaves a void that cannot be filled," he concluded.

'Hardik Pandya always gives his best'

Mohammad Kaif expresses the view that Hardik Pandya consistently delivers exceptional performances. He suggests that while Pandya may not outwardly display his emotions, he is likely feeling the disappointment of not being appointed as the captain of the Indian cricket team.

"He contributes crucial runs when the team requires them and takes key wickets at critical moments. Throughout the T20 World Cup, Hardik Pandya made significant contributions in every match. Although he is not currently the captain, one must consider whether he is unaffected by this situation. Is he not human, capable of feeling emotions? Furthermore, he is not even the vice-captain of the Indian squad," Kaif remarked.

"Pandya serves as the captain of the Mumbai Indians and has led the Gujarat Titans to an IPL victory, followed by a subsequent appearance in the final. However, he does not hold the captaincy for the national team, as that role belongs to Suryakumar Yadav. Despite this, Hardik continues to fulfil his responsibilities to the best of his abilities. He consistently gives his utmost effort. It is challenging to find another player with his unique skill set, especially when he is sidelined due to injury. In a nation of 1.4 billion, there is truly only one authentic all-rounder, and that is Hardik Pandya," he concluded.

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