Hardik Pandya could have been a captaincy option for the Sri Lanka tour, feels his childhood coach Jitendra Singh. India takes on Sri Lanka in a 3-match ODI, starting July 18, series followed by 3 T20Is.
Jitendra Singh on Hardik Pandya
Hardik’s childhood coach, Jitendra Singh had no doubts on the all-rounder’s prowess with the bat and stated that he had the technique, skill and temperament to succeed purely as a Test batsman.
“He can contribute. He has got the technique and temperament and maturity and if he gets an opportunity he can prove himself. The conditions don’t matter for him as his technique is sound and simple,” quoted Jitendra.
Jitendra however was very disappointed that the management did not consider Hardik’s name to lead the side in Sri Lanka. He is one of the few players in the relatively inexperienced squad who has represented India in all three formats and is someone who is seen as a long term investment for the country.
“Definitely, I was. He could have been a great option as he can play for five to seven years. He has got new thoughts and has a lot of energy. He could have been a good investment (in captaincy) especially for the white ball format.”
Jitendra believed that stardom had not changed the core of Hardik the player or person.
“No, he hasn’t at all. He remains the same Under-16 boy from the club days. To be honest, of late, he has taught me a lot of things because of his exposure and interactions with a lot of players and coaches who are active in international cricket. If you are a good human being, you will be a good cricketer as well. Cricket is a byproduct of your personality,” said Jitendra.
On what were his expectations from Hardik, Jitendra stated that he wanted to see more of the all-rounder in international cricket.
“I want him to perform more as an all-rounder. If his alignment and bowling action is better, he will definitely be. He is very serious regarding his bowling.”
Team India under Shikhar Dhawan’s captaincy scheduled to play 3 match ODI series and as much as T20I series against Sri Lanka. Where Bhuvneshwar Kumar is named as the Vice-Captain of the team.
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