Hardik Pandya: In the thrilling aftermath of India’s triumphant T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, Hardik Pandya has ascended to the pinnacle of T20I all rounder rankings. Sharing the top spot with Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga, Pandya’s stellar performances have cemented his status as the best T20I all rounder in the world.
Let’s have a look into more details: Hardik Pandya – World’s Top T20I All-Rounder
Hardik Pandya’s World Cup Journey
Hardik Pandya’s journey to the top of the T20I all-rounder rankings is a testament to his exceptional versatility and resilience. During the T20 World Cup, Pandya scored 144 crucial runs and took 11 vital wickets in just 8 matches. His striking rate of 150 and his ability to deliver in critical moments underscore his prowess in both batting and bowling.
Key Performances in the World Cup
- Against South Africa (Final Match): Pandya’s most notable performance came in the World Cup final against South Africa, where he clinched three critical wickets, including the prized scalps of Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller. His spell of 3/20 was instrumental in India’s nail biting 7 run victory.
- Against Pakistan: Pandya delivered with both the ball and the bat. His figures of 2/24, dismissing key players Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan, were crucial in restricting Pakistan’s total.
- Against the USA: In the group stages, Pandya’s economical bowling (2/14) played a significant role in keeping the American batting lineup in check.
- Against Bangladesh: Pandya showcased his batting skills with an unbeaten half century, guiding India to a commanding position.
The ICC Rankings
In the latest ICC rankings update, Hardik Pandya jumped two places to secure the No.1 spot among T20I all rounders, a feat no Indian has achieved before. This leap saw him surpass Wanindu Hasaranga, who previously held the top position.
Pandya’s ascent to the No.1 all rounder spot is more than just a personal accolade; it’s a reflection of his crucial role in India’s World Cup success. His ability to perform under pressure, both with the bat and ball, has made him an indispensable asset to the Indian T20I team.
From Criticism to Celebration
Hardik Pandya’s journey to the top has not been without challenges. Just months before the World Cup, Pandya faced criticism for his captaincy of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024 season. Fans and critics were vocal about their disappointment as MI failed to make the playoffs under his leadership. However, Pandya silenced his critics with his outstanding World Cup performances, proving his mettle on the global stage.
In a poignant moment after the World Cup final, Pandya was seen in tears, overwhelmed by the magnitude of India’s victory and his pivotal role in it. This emotional outburst was not just about the win, but also about his journey of redemption and the transformation from a much criticized figure to a celebrated hero.
While Pandya enjoys his moment at the top, he shares the spotlight with Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga. Hasaranga has been a consistent performer and a vital player for Sri Lanka in T20Is, known for his exceptional spin bowling and useful contributions with the bat. The fact that Pandya and Hasaranga are tied at the No.1 spot highlights the competitive nature of modern T20 cricket and the exceptional talent these players bring to the game.
As Hardik Pandya continues to break new ground and set benchmarks in T20I cricket, the cricketing world eagerly awaits his next chapter. With the T20 World Cup trophy in hand and the title of the world’s best T20I all rounder, Pandya is poised to lead India into a new era of dominance in the shortest format of the game.
FAQ
Who shares the No.1 T20I all rounder spot with Hardik Pandya?
Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga shares the top spot with Hardik Pandya in the ICC T20I all rounder rankings
