Hardik Pandya an all-rounder and an unforgettable name in the world of cricket has triumphed in some astonishing achievements in the 15th Edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).
During T20 World Cup 2021, he injured himself and hasn't played professional cricket since then, but came back with a staunch effect and bagged the Captaincy for the new franchise Gujarat Titans.
Furthermore, this captain of Gujarat Titans became the fastest Indian to whomp 100 sixes in IPL. No doubt, Gujarat Titans drafted Hardik Pandya for 15Cr in the 2022 auction for his propensity.
Moreover, Pandya is also referred to as Kung Fu Pandya for his zeal and perseverance. Under his efficacious captainship, Gujarat Titans won 9 games out of 12. Truly said, the team performance in the whole season depends upon the mentor, coaches, and most prominently the captain.
This could be seen in Chennai Super King how things vanquished and changed for the respective team since MS Dhoni took charge as the captain similarly, Hardik has made it possible for his Gujarat Titans to some phenomenal improvisation in overall team performance. This is the impact of a captain on the team.
One of the senior cricketers Harbhajan said, "A player like Hardik should have the freedom to work on his game, and he's getting that at Gujarat Titans. For me, he is the best captain in this season so far. He is taking responsibility. Now he is bowling his full quota of four overs. He is leading the team from the front and has made a habit of scoring consistently with his bat. He always looks to motivate his teammates."
Further, Gujarat Titans became the first team to qualify for the playoffs in the captaincy of Pandya. Without having any prior experience with the captaincy, he handled the pressure deftly and showed up great leadership skills with his smart moves and decisions.
Hardik Pandya brought back the mojo that was deficient after legendary players like Ravi Shastri and Kapil Dev.
Proving everybody wrong Pandya emerged as the best captain of IPL15.
Some of the cricket panjandrums are of the view that this captaincy responsibility brings out the best of this player. This could be further elucidated through the way he is marshaling his troops and leading from the front in bowling, batting with 344 runs in the 11 innings at an impressive strike rate of 131.80 including 3 half-centuries as well.
Speaking on 'Cricket Live' on Star Sports, Matthew Hayden said: "Good cricketers, good leaders in particular keep their best for the best of times and that's Hardik Pandya right now. He's performing well in all departments. I love his energy and the enthusiasm that he brings to the table."
Another prominent personality in cricket Gavaskar said, "Hat's off to the hard work he's been putting in. He didn't play much cricket before the IPL because he was recovering from an injury. Look at the discipline he's showing in his batting. He's batting well in the powerplay and making full use of the field restrictions; he's doing exceedingly well in the field and getting better with every game."
Due to Hardik, Gujarat Titans are sitting snugly at the zenith of the table. With 3 matches left GT will try to be in the top 2 to get an extra chance for the finals.
Hope to see a new winner in this 15th edition of IPL maybe it will be from the 2 new franchises. Fingers crossed. Till the final results are revealed enjoy the IPL.
