Dubai: India and Pakistan will lock horns for the sixth time in the ICC T20 World Cups on Sunday in Dubai in a game of probably the utmost magnitude. The two continental giants arguably have the biggest cricket people back in their homeland and both of them are also former champions of this tournament.
As the Dubai International Cricket Stadium gets ready to witness the intensity, eyebrows will be raised on Playing XIs of both teams. Babar Azam’s Pakistan has already revealed their squad of 12 on the even of the match, while Virat Kohli’s India has taken a back-seat in this matter.
However, the fans and experts are still contemplating the combination the Indian team should opt for against their arch-rivals and also who will be the X-factor.
Amidst this craze, Former India cricketer Virender Sehwag said his choice of the man to watch for. The former opening batsman has chosen all-rounder Hardik Pandya to be the probable difference-maker. Sehwag opened up about Hardik’s abilities and how it could change the complexion of the game.
“He’ll be on my team. The kind of batter he is, if he clicks, he’ll make the match one-sided, and finish it.” Sehwag added.
“He has the ability, which he has shown many times. Yes, if he was bowling fit, that would have been the icing on the cake…” He further added.
However, Hardik’s form is still a matter of concern. The lanky 28-year-old didn’t look at his best in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) with critics doubting his role as an all-rounder after seeing his lack of overs with the ball.
Some others also have opted for Shardul Thakur who was roped into the Indian team in place of Axar Patel in the final 15-man squad. Although he is much different from the role of Hardik with his bowling being the much strong point. His batting down the order at times proved quite fruitful for the team with his stroke-making often becoming headlines.
However, Sehwag feels Hardik can still be a vital cog for the side and he can aid as the fourth of fifth bowler depending upon the situation.
“You should go with five bowlers plus if Hardik Pandya or someone else from the top-order bowls a few overs, it’ll be the perfect team for me… His batting is surely a concern. If he’s not in form or not batting well in the nets, then you can maybe see another batter, otherwise, he’ll be my first pick.” Sehwag stated.
