Former Australia skipper Ian Chappell reckons that Hardik Pandya can become the match-turning all-rounder India was searching since the retirement of legendary Kapil Dev.  In recent times, Pandya has become a crucial cog in the limited overs games for India.

In his column for ESPNCricinfo, Chappel wrote, “Hardik Pandya is potentially the fast-bowling all-rounder India have craved since Kapil Dev retired.”

He further elaborated, “A player like Pandya, who has the ability to bat in the top six and also produce deliveries clocked at 140kph, gives a Test side the flexibility that leads to success under all conditions. It affords India the opportunity to field a balanced attack of five bowlers no matter what the conditions.”

Pandya not only has the potential to perform the role triumphantly but now that he is achieving uniformity at international level, his confidence has risen.

Hardik hit the doors of fame during the 2015 IPL when he demonstrated his hard-hitting ability and handy fast-medium bowling. Talking about the same, Chappell wrote, “For India to be regarded as a truly great side, they need to perform well under tough conditions and against extremely competitive opponents like Australia and South Africa. If Pandya can adapt his bowling to succeed in those cauldrons — and there’s no reason he can’t — then India, with a strong batting line-up, are more likely to experience consistent overseas success.”