The former India coach, Abhishek Nayar, believes that all-rounder Hardik Pandya remains an invaluable asset to the Indian team, given his all-round contributions with both bat and ball, along with his leadership qualities in limited-overs cricket.
Pandya was named in India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2025, where he is expected to play a key role as the side’s premier all-rounder—capable of turning the tide when needed for the Men in Blue. Speaking to the broadcasters, Nayar underlined just how important Pandya could be in the upcoming tournament.
“An absolutely invaluable player for Indian cricket—and when you look at world cricket, how many players do you really have who can bowl with the new ball, bowl at the death, deliver four overs consistently, and also play impact knocks against both spin and pace? He’s an absolute game changer,” Nayar said on Star Sports.
“I think more than anything, his biggest strength is his personality. Just sitting there in the dressing room or the dugout, and knowing that when he’s out in the middle, there’s always an assurance that something remarkable can happen,” he added.
Over the years, Pandya has firmly established himself as one of India’s most valuable players. His role in India’s 2024 T20 World Cup triumph was a defining one, especially as he bowled the last over in the final to seal the title and end the team’s 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.
“We are the current world champions also because of those overs he bowled under pressure. Not only with the bat, but with the ball as well, he has consistently shown his ability to deliver in tough situations,” Nayar pointed out.
Leader With or Without a Designated Role
Pandya was once widely regarded as the next leader in Indian cricket in the post Rohit Sharma–Virat Kohli era. However, with Suryakumar Yadav named captain and Shubman Gill his deputy, Pandya has been edged out of official leadership duties. Still, Nayar believes his presence in the team carries the weight of leadership, irrespective of formal titles.
“He definitely brings leadership to the group. He will always be a leader, whether he’s the captain or not. And like I said, more than just a cricketer, it’s his personality and the aura he brings to the team that matters a lot to these young players,” he said.
– Ends
