Former India opening batsman Aakash Chopra lauded Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper Hardik Pandya. He spoke of how the talismanic all-rounder helped his team win the Indian Premier League championship in the most recent season (IPL 2022).
He also believed that the players’ fearless strategy while leading the team played a significant role in their successful tenure.
Aakash Chopra stated on his YouTube channel that the team would not have won if Hardik Pandya had not fired with both bat and ball.
“Hardik Pandya took the initiative. How much he has accomplished this season is without a doubt incredible. If Hardik Pandya had not scored runs, this squad would not be effective. If he hadn’t been bowling, they might not have had a sixth bowling option. However, he did bowl and took important wickets. His leadership has been fearless and perfect.”
In this year’s cash-rich league, Hardik Pandya emerged as the leading batting performer for the Gujarat-based side. In 15 games, the right-hander scored 487 runs. He also took eight wickets and had an economy rate of 7.28.
‘Ashish Nehra played a major role for GT’: Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra also mentioned that head coach Ashish Nehra did an excellent job of keeping the players together during the season. He emphasized that despite not having any superstars on their squad, the squad was able to surpass others through their collective efforts.
Aakash Chopra stated “We should acknowledge Ashish Nehra. He is the first Indian head coach to win the IPL, and he played a significant role for GT. He was in charge of a team with few superstars, and everyone had to punch above their weight.”
Throughout the tournament, GT displayed a dominant brand of cricket. They successfully completed first in the league and then topped the Qualifier. They then won the prestigious trophy with a breathtaking seven-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
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