Wasim Jaffer mentioned that Hardik Pandya needs to manage his workload carefully, especially in 50-over Cricket, with the ODI World Cup coming up next year. This event will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, where the conditions are likely to help the ball seam and swing. Having Hardik in top shape will be crucial for India, the two-time champions.
Hardik has been included in India’s squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. His selection was contingent on passing fitness tests at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Reports indicate he has cleared these tests and will join the team soon. However, he is not part of India’s squads for the later T20I series in Ireland and England.
Jaffer believes resting Hardik for the T20 format is a wise choice by the team management and the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar. The former India opener noted that there are few players with skills comparable to Hardik’s.
“I think he has to be selective now. He’s just come back from surgery. Test cricket is not an option. In 50 overs, he will need to decide which matches to play, especially with the World Cup in mind. This is a fair decision. A few players need rest. We don’t have many like him, and he brings balance, so we should take care of him,” he stated on his YouTube channel.
Jaffer expressed confidence that India are strong favorites to win the ODI series against Afghanistan. He stated that even a single win for Afghanistan would surprise Shubman Gill’s team. Nonetheless, he mentioned that this series will provide Afghanistan with valuable preparation ahead of the World Cup.
“India are undoubtedly favorites. Afghanistan pose a greater challenge in T20s. The 50-over format will be challenging for them as well. We are expected to win most matches. If Afghanistan wins even one game, it would be quite a surprise for India. However, this series will help Afghanistan clarify who they should support for the World Cup,” he added.