Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra (Image Credits: Twitter)

In the first Twenty20 International between India and New Zealand, Aakash Chopra questioned why Hardik Pandya didn’t give Arshdeep Singh the opportunity to start bowling.

When invited to bat first on Friday, January 27, in Ranchi, the Kiwis set a 177-run goal for the Men in Blue. Following that, they held the hosts to 155/9 to win by 21 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

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Hardik Pandya
Photo Credit: (BCCI)

In a video posted to his YouTube account,Aakash Chopra discussed India’s bowling performance and suggested that Arshdeep should have taken the first over in place of Hardik, saying:

“We anticipated Finn Allen would be an easy target to knock out, but that did not happen. Why did Hardik Pandya bowl the game ball? Arshdeep ought to have bowled the opening over, in my opinion”

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Aakash Chopra emphasized how the pricey first over gave the Kiwi innings a head start, stating:

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Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya (Credits: Twitter)

“In the first over, Allen hit three fours. Your confidence soars when you make three fours. Then you declare that you would strike since you have no fear of anyone. The other aspect of the story is that Arshdeep does not appear to be in great shape.”

Washington Sundar is actually a genuine all-rounder”: Aakash Chopra

Washington Sundar’s spell was praised, but Aakash Chopra also questioned Hardik for delaying Shivam Mavi, explaining:

Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar (Getty Images)

“The bowling was then rotated after that. They arrived really late and with Shivam Mavi. He could have been brought in a little earlier, even though I realized the ball was turning a little. For 33 runs, Hardik bowled three overs. Washington Sundar was truly great. Washi Sundar is actually a genuine all-rounder.”

Washington Sundar’s late heroics were in vain as India lost by 21 runs to New Zealand in the first T20I in Ranchi.

Also Read: IND vs AUS: Glenn Maxwell Plans To Make An Unexpected Return To The Sheffield Shield

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