IND vs SA: Hardik Pandya Still Has Got Bit Of Work To Do On His Bowling - Graeme Smith

Former South African captain Graeme Smith reckoned that Indian all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, has shown he is batting still up to the mark but the bowling has started lagging behind compared to the old times.

Hardik returned to the Indian team for the 5-match T20I series and has bowled a few overs in the tough phases. Unfortunately, he has been on the expensive side and hasn’t been effective in taking wickets either.

“Yeah, I think he does (walk into the XI for T20 WC). He has still got a bit of work to do on his bowling. Also, how India use him in various times, that’s something that Rohit needs to adapt to.”

“In the IPL, we saw him bowl in the overs upfront, (but) minimal amount through middle period and backend. In the first two games, he was used in a tough period. He didn’t bowl in Vizag, but his batting in the middle order has been excellent,” Smith told cricket.com.

“I don’t think he is going to be a four-over bowler for India” – Graeme Smith

Smith feels that India has more than enough options in the bowling attack and Hardik can focus on contributing a couple of overs, instead of trying to bowl out his four overs of quota.

“He will bring the leadership element and his experience, and good decision-making element as well. In the international level, he is going to take his time to find his feet. I don’t think he is going to be a four-over bowler for India, but he will make a contribution as a sixth bowler,” Smith added.

The series between India and South Africa currently stands at 2-1 in favor of the latter. The 4th T20I will take place on Friday in Rajkot.

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