Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has named Hardik Pandya as the top all-rounder in world T20 Cricket as India prepares for the 2026 T20 World Cup. With the tournament expanding to 20 teams, Clarke believes India’s chance to defend their title will rely significantly on Pandya’s contributions.
Pandya’s value to the Indian team was evident during their successful 2024 T20 World Cup, where he performed exceptionally well, both with the bat and the ball. His key wickets in the final against South Africa helped India secure a narrow seven-run victory.
Clarke praised Hardik, saying:
“This is a big call. I was watching India play the other night, and I think Hardik is the most important player in the world in T20 cricket currently. He’s my number one buy in T20 cricket. If I had to buy one player, I think it’d be Hardik Pandya, especially in Indian conditions. He is vital with bat, ball, and in the field.” Clarke mentioned in an interview with RevSportz.
Clarke also pointed out Hardik’s leadership skills and game sense, noting that his experience could be crucial for India’s success.
“He’s an amazing tactician too. As a senior player, he can help, even without being the captain. He reads the game well, which makes him huge for India’s success. Don’t be surprised if Hardik gets Player of the Series,” he added.
Pandya’s T20I statistics back up Clarke’s views, with over 2,000 runs and more than 100 wickets from 129 matches.
Clarke also remarked on India’s leading bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, saying a fully fit Bumrah could give India an important advantage over teams like Australia, who are facing injury issues among their fast bowlers.
“That could be a key difference. Bumrah is the best, no doubt. If he’s fit, that can really stand out. The Australian team is missing Pat Cummins due to injury, Mitchell Starc has retired, and Josh Hazlewood may not start the tournament. A healthy Bumrah can be significant,” said Clarke.
Bumrah was a standout for India during the 2024 T20 World Cup, earning the Player of the Tournament title with 15 wickets at an impressive economy rate of under 4.20.
Aside from Pandya and Bumrah, Clarke highlighted Kuldeep Yadav as another key player for India in the upcoming World Cup. He praised Kuldeep’s ability to take wickets and believes he will be crucial in the tournament. Kuldeep took 10 wickets in five matches during India’s 2024 T20 World Cup title run.
“I’ve supported him for a long time because I think he’s a superstar who hasn’t had enough opportunity in all three formats is Kuldeep Yadav. I believe he’s ready. He’s a wicket-taker, which is vital. Getting wickets is the best way to stop runs,” the former Australia captain shared.
