‘My concern is Hardik Pandya’s form’ – Former India cricketer raises concerns over star all-rounder’s form ahead of Asia Cup

The Indian Cricket Board’s new chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, has announced the squad for the Asia Cup 2023. Interestingly, the star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has retained his vice-captaincy despite rumours that Jasprit Bumrah will be the deputy of Rohit Sharma’s side in the upcoming marquee events owing to his brilliance against Ireland. In addition, the Gujarat Titans skipper has not been in solid form, and the Men in Blue have lost the five-match T20I series against the West Indies under his captaincy.

Meanwhile, speaking on the same subject, former India cricketer Madan Lal believes that Hardik Pandya needs to be in solid form ahead of the major tournaments. Notably, the 1992 World Cup winner also backed the 29-year-old cricketer by calling him the next captain owing to his great captaincy, especially in T20Is. In addition, the former all-rounder is concerned about his recent form. Notably, the 72-year-old cricketer wants to see Hardik Pandya’s great knocks, which he produced against Australia, again.

Where is the Hardik Pandya that scored 92 against Australia?: Madan Lal

“See, he definitely could be the next captain, the way he is going about leading in T20Is. But my concern is not that. Hardik has to perform. He is so talented and has done well, but where is the Hardik Pandya that scored 92 against Australia? That sort of form I want to see Hardik in,” Madan Lal told Hindustan Times on the sidelines of the CEAT Awards.

Moreover, the legendary cricketer has expressed happiness about his bowling, as the Rohit Sharma side will need him in the squad as the sixth bowler. In addition, the Punjab-born cricketer says Hardik has to ensure that he bowls well in the upcoming marquee events.

“At the same time, I am very happy that he is bowling. We need him bowling in the World Cup as that sixth bowler. They have given him a very important role and Hardik has to ensure that he does well,” he added further.