Suresh Raina speaks on Hardik Pandya’s powerful return: Superstar all-rounder Hardik Pandya has announced his comeback in some style: Captain of an IPL franchise for the first time; bowling his full quota of 4 overs in both games and clocking the 140 KPH mark; giving himself a promotion to number 4 in the batting order and taking up the anchor role.
This is a statement-making comeback from Hardik Pandya who had been away for about four months before the IPL; he opted out of all forms of the game after the T20 World Cup last November and gave his full attention to his fitness, particular his back injury issues because of which he hadn’t been able to bowl full tilt for the past couple of years, and also get his batting form and consistency. This is the first time in the IPL after two seasons that Hardik Pandya is bowling.
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina reckoned it was Hardik’s family, and in particular, his brother Krunal who played a vital role in his solid comeback to the cricket field as a fitter and more confident cricketer.
Suresh Raina is presently a part of IPL 2022 commentary team and his fans are loving his new avatar.
Speaking on Star Sports, Suresh Raina said: “The way Hardik Pandya has made his comeback, is commendable. In a player’s return from injury, his family, especially, his wife has to play the most important role and we could see the happiness on his wife’s face when he was bowling. His elder brother Krunal has also played a major role in Hardik’s recovery and gave him all the confidence he needed. Hardik is looking fit and he’s also generating decent pace with the ball, these are good signs for Gujarat Titans.”
This renaissance in Hardik’s career will now help him slot back into India’s side as the Men In Blue prepare for the T20 World Cup in Australia.
Gujarat Titans have made a strong start to their IPL 2022 campaign winning both their games against Lucknow and Delhi. Their next assignment is against Punjab Kings on Friday.
