SL vs IND: Hardik Pandya’s curious tale of T20 star to a captaincy contender, find out
Xtra Time Web Desk:Former Sri Lanka batter Russell Arnold believes that the IPL 2024 played a significant role in Hardik Pandya being overlooked for the captaincy of the Indian white-ball cricket team ahead of their tour of Sri Lanka. Despite serving as the vice-captain under Rohit Sharma during the T20 World Cup 2024 and leading the team in the shortest format, Pandya was passed over for the top job.
Expectations were high that Pandya would succeed Sharma as the T20I captain and continue as the vice-captain of the ODI side. However, the BCCI opted to appoint Suryakumar Yadav as the T20I skipper and named Shubman Gill as the vice-captain in both white-ball formats. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar cited concerns over Pandya's fitness as a factor in the decision.
Arnold, speaking to Sports Tak, a sister channel of India Today, suggested that fitness was not the only consideration. He pointed out that while both Pandya and Suryakumar are exceptional players, Pandya struggled to gain the respect of his peers during IPL 2024. This perceived lack of respect may have influenced the BCCI's decision to explore other leadership options.
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Arnold emphasized the importance of team cohesion and maintaining a positive atmosphere, expressing optimism about Suryakumar's potential to excel in the captaincy role. He sees this as a valuable opportunity for Suryakumar to demonstrate his leadership skills and unite the team.
