Hardik Pandya’s name has often popped up in conversations about potential successors to MS Dhoni, and for good reason. In this article, we explore two compelling arguments as to why Hardik Pandya could be India’s new MS Dhoni.
2 Reasons Why Hardik Pandya Can Be The New MS Dhoni:
1. Versatility on Display: How Pandya is Mastering Multiple Roles
Firstly, let’s talk versatility. In a recent ODI against Pakistan, Pandya pulled off a Dhoni-esque performance. Coming in at 66/4, he calmly anchored the innings, showing a maturity that was uncanny in its resemblance to the legend he’s often compared to. Unlike many players who specialize in either anchoring or accelerating, Pandya displayed the ability to adapt according to the situation. He nudged and paddle-swept against spinners, and skillfully guided seamers to minimize risks. Babar Azam tried to lure him into risky shots, but Pandya kept his composure. His patient approach paid off, as he kept the scoreboard ticking without unnecessary risks. As many as 53 of his 87 runs came from singles and twos, a classic Dhoni tactic.
Besides anchoring the innings, Pandya showed he can swiftly change gears. He waited until the 72nd ball of his innings to unleash his full power, emphasizing that he can be an effective finisher. This multi-dimensional skill set, reminiscent of Dhoni, is what Team India has been searching for since Dhoni’s departure. Pandya isn’t just fitting into Dhoni’s shoes; he’s making them his own.
2. An Evolving Game: Pandya’s Transition from Power-Hitter to Nuanced Batsman
The second reason Pandya could be the next Dhoni lies in his evolving gameplay. Early in his career, Pandya was known primarily as a lower-order power-hitter. So was Dhoni, before he morphed into one of cricket’s greatest finishers. Over time, Dhoni evolved from being just a power-hitter to a nuanced batsman capable of different roles. Pandya appears to be on a similar trajectory. He averages well against countries with formidable pace attacks like Pakistan, Australia, and England. His capability to adjust his batting position according to the situation gives him another edge.
But it’s not just about the big shots. Like Dhoni, Pandya’s batting has more gears than it initially seemed. He’s willing to put team needs ahead of his own, reining in his natural game so that other stroke-makers can play around him. His captaincy in the IPL has also been compared to Dhoni’s, displaying a knack for leadership and strategy. This rounded profile adds weight to the argument that Pandya could emulate Dhoni’s role in the team.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that this evolution has not been overnight. Pandya always had a multifaceted game, but it’s coming to the fore now more than ever. His performance against Pakistan turned many heads, bringing his batting prowess into the limelight just as Dhoni’s skills did in the past. In short, he’s proving that he has what it takes to fill the void left by Dhoni.
