Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has had a rough campaign in the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2024. The 30-year-old was traded in an all-cash deal from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians and was appointed as the skipper as well. Under his leadership, MI finished in 10th place in the standings, winning just four matches and losing the remaining 10.
Throughout the season, Pandya was subjected to major scrutiny from the fans, for his performances and tactics, which saw Mumbai Indians eliminated from the group stage of the tournament.
Pandya was recently named in India’s squad for the T20 World Cup and will be one of India’s main all-rounders going into the tournament. Despite his struggle, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina came forward to back Pandya to perform at the peak of his powers for India in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
“He has done really well (for India). Temporary poor form does not make someone bad. When he will perform well against Pakistan in the World Cup, everyone will praise him,” Suresh Raina was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan.
It is worth noting Hardik has been a crucial part of India’s T20I squad, even being named the skipper of the side in the shortest format in 2023 when Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli focused on the ODI World Cup.
India kick off T20 World Cup campaign by taking on Ireland
Speaking of the T20 World Cup 2024, the Indian team will kick off their campaign by taking on Ireland. Both sides will lock horns at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York on Wednesday, June 5. It is worth noting that India and Ireland are part of Group A in the tournament, with the likes of Pakistan, the USA, and Canada being part of the group as well.
After the clash against Ireland, India will go on to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the 19th game of the tournament on Sunday, June 9.
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