Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes Venkatesh Iyer is well ahead over Hardik Pandya for the fast-bowling all-rounder’s spot in India’s T20I team. He said that in interaction with ESPNcricinfo after India’s 17-run win over West Indies in the third and final T20I in Kolkata.
India won the series by a 3-0 margin. Batting at No.5, Venkatesh Iyer emerged as the finisher with 92 runs from three innings, including an unbeaten 24 and 35 in the lower order. He also bowled three overs, picking up two crucial wickets at an economy rate of 8.52 as well.
He said: “At this point of time, I feel he’s a little bit ahead because you don’t know Hardik Pandya whether he’s bowling now or how fit he is. Obviously how the IPL goes for Hardik Panya will play a very key role but at this point of time, Venkatesh Iyer is ahead of Hardik Pandya.”
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Wasim Jaffer further added: “I am surprised with how good he’s playing as a No. 6 batter. We have seen him as an opener but for him to come out and get adapted so well at No. 6 and finish games is outstanding. Plus, the way he’s bowled as well, got a couple of important wickets. He definitely gives [India] an edge going into the World Cup.”
Meanwhile, Wasim Jaffer was also impressed with Suryakumar Yadav, who top-scored for India in both the T20I series and the preceding ODI rubber. The T20 World Cup is all set to take place for the final quarter of 2022. The Sri Lanka series, meanwhile, will begin at 7:00 pm IST on February 24 in Lucknow.
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“He can easily bat at No. 4, No. 5, he bats at No. 3 for Mumbai Indians… He plays all around the park, unconventional shots to spinners and fast bowlers, he can build the innings, he can finish the innings. So I feel he’s definitely a surety going in the World Cup, without a doubt,” Wasim Jaffer concluded.
