Islamabad: Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has identified Hardik Pandya as the key player who completes India's lineup for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for next month.
Pandya played a crucial role in India's success during the ODI World Cup 2023, but an injury during the tournament unfortunately sidelined him.
His dynamic batting and ability to contribute with the ball make him an indispensable member of the Indian team.
"Hardik Pandya is the essential player for the Indian squad; without him, the playing XI is not whole. He is my favorite, excelling with both bat and ball. He has the capability to finish matches," Kamran expressed on his YouTube channel.
Hardik has participated in 86 ODIs for India, accumulating 1,769 runs at an average of 34.01, which includes 11 half-centuries, with a top score of 92 not out. With the ball, he has taken 84 wickets at an average of 35.23, achieving best figures of 4/24.
In addition to Kamran, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has also emphasized the significance of the star all-rounder for India in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy.
"The pivotal role will be played by Hardik Pandya—especially in terms of his bowling and whether he partners with Kuldeep Yadav," Raina stated during a segment on Star Sports Press Room.
For this prestigious event, Rohit Sharma will lead the team, with right-handed batsman Shubman Gill serving as his deputy.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9. It will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, with India competing in the UAE under a hybrid format. This eight-team event will consist of 15 matches, all played in the 50-over format, across venues in Pakistan and Dubai.
India's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 includes: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill (Vice-Captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (Wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja.
