Former Indian wicketkeeper Kiran More has heaped high praise on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, stating that the Baroda cricketer is a 'four-dimensional' cricketer.
Apart from being a priceless asset for any side with the bat, ball or in the field, Hardik showcased leadership abilities to the hilt in the recently concluded season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The seam-bowling all-rounder led unfancied debutants Gujarat Titans to title glory.
For More, Hardik was always a three-dimensional cricketer, someone who loved performing for the team with his variety of skills.
But, according to the former chairman of the national selection committee, Hardik has added another dimension to his game: leadership.
"For me, Hardik was a young kid who wanted to perform all the time. I now believe he is a four-dimensional player now. Earlier, he was a three-dimensional player because he is bowler, a batter and a fielder, but now he is captain as well. So you feel proud that you have such a talented cricketer in the national side," More said on India Today.
Pandya showcased his versatility to the hilt in the IPL as he embraced the role of batting in the top-4 to brilliant effect.
In 15 games, he scored 487 runs at an average of 44.27 and a strike rate of 131.27 with the help of 4, 50+ scores.
Like a true champion, he saved his best for the summit clash against Rajasthan Royals in front of 104,000 home fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
He stabbed a dagger in RR's heart by dismissing an in-form Jos Buttler, skipper Sanju Samson and West Indian swashbuckler Shimron Hetmyer in what was a sensational display of pace bowling.
Pandya then capped off the night with a match-winning 30-ball 34, and Indian fans will now hope that he carries his form and confidence in the forthcoming World Cup.