‘Bring him and bat him at 5’ – Sunil Gavaskar names replacement if Hardik Pandya is rested for Netherlands clash
Sunil Gavaskar, Hardik Pandya (Image Source: Twitter)
After the mighty win against Pakistan in the 20-20 World Cup, the Indian team will face off Netherlands in the showpiece event on October 27, Thursday at Sydney. Many opined that the Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya might be rested for the clash on Thursday and Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian cricketer named one player who can replace Pandya if he is rested.
Backing Deepak Hooda, Gavaskar said that the all-rounder can replace Pandya and also bat at number 5 if required. The former legendary cricketer also said that Dinesh Karthik, who bats down the order usually, could bat at Number 5. Further, Gavaskar said that Pandya must be rested if he has a niggle and also requested the team management to rest anyone if they like doing it and get them ready for Sunday’s clash against South Africa.
I believe you should bring him in: Gavaskar
Pandya is vulnerable when it comes to niggles and the player ran very hard on the field with Virat Kohli on the other end in the previous match against the Men in Green. Although the allrounder did not sustain any injury, it remains to see if he would be rested for the match against Netherlands.
“If Hardik has a niggle, it makes sense to rest him. Because the game against South Africa on Sunday will be crucial. So, if anyone has a niggle, you can get them a little fresh for the Sunday game. But, once again, this is a T20 format, and no team should be underestimated,” Gavaskar said in an interview with India Today.
“If Hardik Pandya is not available, you have Dinesh Karthik at number 5, and I believe you should bring in Deepak Hooda and bat him at number 5. I’d like Mohammad Shami to come and bowl because he hasn’t played much cricket. I think he should come in and practice,” said the former Indian cricketer further.
It remains to see if the team management would make any changes in the playing XI in the next game. However, the main concern for team India would be the form of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as the openers are yet to make an impact with the bat.
