Hardik Pandya is in good form since his return to playing competitive cricket. The fast-bowling all-rounder did well in IPL 2022 which helped him in getting a call-up for the T20I series against South Africa. In the fourth match of the series, Hardik scored 46 runs from 31 balls which proved to be crucial in the context of the game. The right-handed batter has consistently walked out to bat at number 5 for India throughout the series. 

“He would like to be number four ideally. He does understand what the team requires and how he should mold his game. If you lose early wickets… that’s the situation he thrives upon. Since this IPL, it is very visible that he is enjoying such a challenge. He is not looking rushed,” said Zaheer Khan on Cricbuzz. 

“When you lose early wickets as a team, you need a temperament like that. Someone who is assured of his ability, but also absorbs pressure which means slowing down. So, if he can maintain this form and bowl, then that’s the best thing for maintaining the team’s balance. So. Rahul Dravid will be very happy and the Indian team management will be very happy.”