The upcoming IPL 2024 has ignited discussions about the All-time Greatest XI, focusing on the crucial all-rounder role. In this context, former Sunrisers Hyderabad coach Tom Moody and legendary Australian opener Matthew Hayden have unanimously chosen India’s star all-rounder in white-ball cricket, Hardik Pandya, for this pivotal position.
The selection process involves playing 11, 4 impact substitutes, and 1 coach, with inputs from 25 cricket experts, 16 lakh fans, and 70 journalists casting their votes.
In an interview with Star Sports, Tom Moody explained his choice of Hardik Pandya, emphasizing the need to prioritize overseas positions for balance in the team. Moody highlighted Pandya’s versatility as a finisher and boundary hitter, underlining his valuable contributions with both bat and ball.
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“I don’t want to use one of my overseas positions for this, purely for the balance in the side. I still want to have room for an overseas fast bowler and an overseas spinner that make my best XI,” said Tom Moody.
Hardik Pandya’s journey in the IPL started with the Mumbai Indians in 2015, and he has since become a reliable performer, securing five IPL titles, four with Mumbai Indians and the latest with the Gujarat Titans. Moody praised Pandya’s adaptability, citing his ability to play as a finisher and captaincy experience with the Titans.
“He can play as a finisher; he learned that craft under the guidance of Pollard in MI for many years. He then took on his journey in a different direction at Gujarat Titans and batted further up the order. But for me, he’s a boundary hitter, can bat seven, but also gives you those valuable overs at a good pace,” added Tom Moody.
Matthew Hayden echoed Moody’s sentiment, supporting Pandya’s inclusion as the all-rounder in the All-time Greatest XI. Hayden emphasized the importance of recognizing Indian talent and opted for Pandya over an overseas player in this crucial role.
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“I don’t want to waste an opportunity for an Indian talent instead of an overseas talent, so Hardik Pandya walks into my greatest eleven side for sure,” said Matthew Hayden.
As Hardik Pandya returns to the Mumbai Indians as their new captain, the expectations are high for the dynamic all-rounder to lead the franchise back to championship glory in the upcoming IPL season.
