Kamran Akmal names the X-factor player who can win India big tournaments

Kamran Akmal: (Image Source: Twitter)

Following India’s win in the second ODI against Sri Lanka, Pakistan’s former cricketer, Kamran Akmal heaped special praise on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Akmal highlighted Hardik Pandya’s importance in both ODIs and T20Is and urged the Indian team management to give him adequate rest to keep him fully fit, especially for the big events.

"In pressure situations, Hardik Pandya always makes the Indian team win. He makes partnerships and also bowls in pressure situations, also comes to bat in pressure. He takes his team out of tough situations and is a huge advantage for the Indian team", he said.

Chasing a 215-run total set by Sri Lanka in the second ODI, India were in trouble at 86 for 4 when Hardik Pandya walked into bat. He brought calmness in the middle and stitched a 75-run partnership. Pandya got out after playing a handy knock of 36 runs but India won the game by 4 wickets, eventually, and, thereby, sealed the series 2-0.

"The ones who understand cricket know that Hardik Pandya and Team India are a good combination in T20, ODI cricket. The team looks better and stronger with him. They let him rest also and manage his workload. If there is any big series or event, they use him. He is a good sign for the Indian team", Akmal added added.’

Earlier, India bundled out Sri Lanka for a below-par score of 215 runs on the board in the first innings. Sri Lanka were going pretty well till the 15th over, having lost only 1 wicket.

However, the introduction of spinners saw them lose five wickets in the space of just 7 overs. Kuldeep Yadav starred with the ball for his brilliant figures of 3 for 51 in 10 overs. He was adjudged Man of the Match for his outstanding bowling performance.

The third and final ODI match is slated to be played on Sunday at Greenfield International Stadium.