- Hardik Pandya – India:
India’s frustrating search for a seam-bowling all-rounder could well end with Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder has just been a revelation and could take his career to the summit if he contributes in a major chunk of India’s campaign this time around.
Having played 7 ODIs, Pandya has 9 wickets to his name and averages in excess of 50 with the bat, being mainly a finisher. Pandya was quite accurate with the ball against England earlier this year, as he struck at some defining moments.
His batting prowess as a finisher is another major aspect which will prompt India to play him at 7. If Pandya can successfully deliver 10 overs, India will be assured of not just good accurate seam bowling in assisting conditions, but also an extended batting order as someone like Ravindra Jadeja could bat at 8. With conditions set to favour his style of play, Pandya couldn’t have asked for a better stage to prove his skills and become an overnight international icon.