Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar praised Hardik Pandya, stating that his inclusion in the team provides a splendid equilibrium. As the Asia Cup 2023 Final in Colombo beckons, Bangar shed light on the Indian squad, particularly lauding its well-rounded bowling arsenal.
The final, a riveting contest between India and Sri Lanka, will see Pandya in action this Sunday. He had been given a breather during the Super Four encounter against Bangladesh, making his return all the more anticipated.
In a candid chat with PTI, Bangar remarked, "He has matured a lot over the years. He had some setbacks in terms of his fitness but he has now worked hard to reach where he is now. He has shouldered the responsibilities very well, and is captaining India in T20s. He gives a lot of balance to the team being an all-rounder."
Pandya's role isn't just confined to his all-rounder capabilities. He's also taken up the mantle as the third seamer, following in the footsteps of stalwarts like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. This, Bangar believes, furnishes the Indian attack with a comprehensive dimension.
Elaborating on India's bowling prowess, Bangar said, "We have one of the best attacks going into the World Cup. We have two fine new ball bowlers in Bumrah and Siraj, and then there is the experienced Shami. Kuldeep (Yadav) has so many variations, as he offers a wicket-taking option."
The spin department, too, has been in sterling form during the Asia Cup. The pairing of Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav has been particularly effective, weaving a web around the opposition on the Sri Lankan tracks. Bangar added, "(Ravindra) Jadeja too is around. As we spoke earlier, Hardik does give India a wonderful option with the ball. Overall, I think India has a strong and complete bowling line-up going into the World Cup."
The stage is set for Sunday, 17 September, as Rohit Sharma's brigade, having already bested the co-hosts in the Super 4 round, is keen to wrest the Asia Cup title from the reigning champions.
