Here's what Yuvraj Singh said about Hardik Pandya
The ICC World Cup 2019 starts this week as India would look to have a shot at their third title. With a star-studded side, India certainly enter as the pre-tournament favorites. Former cricketer Yuvraj Singh has labeled all-rounder Hardik Pandya as India's main guy and believes that he could be their X-Factor in the tournament. Here is more about what he said.
Yuvraj hails Pandya's brutal all-round form
Yuvraj praised Pandya's current form and felt that besides his batting, his bowling has been equally effective, which could play an important role in England. Yuvraj also said that Pandya, being the third seamer, gives the right balance to the team. "It is up to him to adapt from Twenty20 to 50 over format. And, it depends on how we use him," he added.
Pandya's IPL form makes him lethal
Considering Pandya's recent form, he was brutal in the IPL 2019. He finished as the third highest wicket-taker for Mumbai Indians, claiming 14 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 9.17. With the bat, he scored the fourth-most runs for the side, scoring 402 in 15 innings at an average of 44.66. Notably, he helped Mumbai win the title.
Yuvraj picks India, Australia and England among favorites
"I feel India and England have a very good chance of making it to the final. Australia, yes, since [David] Warner and Steve [Smith] came back; they also have a very good bowling attack," he said to Hindustan Times.
Yuvraj claims 300 plus totals are competitive now-a-days
Yuvraj asserted owing to the field placement changes, scoring runs has become easier While scores like 260-280 used to be competitive back then, the same has changed to 300+ now, owing to five fielders inside the ring. "I feel we still have that unit where they can chase anything. And, India has been playing really well in the last 2-3 years," Yuvraj added.
Pandya is India's X-Factor, they need to play smart cricket
As Pandya aims to once again dominate in England, his fine form in IPL does make him dangerous. Thus, the author completely agrees with Yuvraj that Pandya is indeed India's X-Factor this World Cup. However, India need to play smart cricket, especially as a unit, in order to thrive in England, while dependency on any player is likely to hurt them.
