Hardik Pandya might captain India to manage Rohit’s workload

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is living the golden phase of his career. The all-rounder led his franchise ‘Gujarat’ to their maiden title in the Indian T20 league 2022 in the first season itself. He was among the top run-getters for his franchise in the tournament. His successful run in the league earned him the opportunity to captain the Indian T20I team on the tour to Ireland.

If the reports are to be believed, Pandya might be considered to lead the team in the upcoming short tours of team India. A report published in Inside Sports quoted a member of the selection committee claiming that Pandya will get a chance to lead the team in the absence of senior players in future tours.

“There is no question of replacing Rohit Sharma anytime soon. But at the same time, it is important to manage his workload. Yes, Hardik is in our plans as there will be many short tours in the future and he is not in Test plans at the moment,” a member of the selection committee was quoted in the report.

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag said that the Indian cricket board must look to relieve Rohit Sharma of his workload owing to his age.

“If the Indian team management has someone else in mind as captain in the T20 format, then I think, Rohit could be relieved and the following can be taken into consideration going forward,” said Sehwag, as quoted by NDTV Sports.

Sehwag suggested it would help Rohit to manage mental and physical fatigue given his age. “It will also help Rohit to take frequent breaks to rejuvenate himself to lead in Tests and ODIs,” he added.

Under Hardik’s leadership, India won the first T20 international against Ireland on Sunday and will be looking to clinch the series with a victory in the second T20 international. The all-rounder has become a completely different player ever since his stint with Gujarat this season.