Hardik Pandya Approaches Milestone in Upcoming ODI Series Against New Zealand
Hardik Pandya on the Verge of a Significant Achievement
The upcoming ODI series between India and New Zealand, commencing this Sunday, is set to be a remarkable occasion for Hardik Pandya. The Indian all-rounder is on the brink of entering an exclusive group of players, including legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, and Kapil Dev, who have amassed 2,000 runs and taken 100 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Aiming for the 2027 World Cup
As India gears up for its quest for the 2027 World Cup, these ODIs against the Kiwis will be crucial. Hardik, known for his explosive batting and ability to bowl 10 overs of quality pace, is expected to play a pivotal role and potentially set new records.
Close to a Unique Double
Currently, Hardik has participated in 94 ODIs and batted in 68 innings, accumulating 1,904 runs at an average of 32.82 and a strike rate nearing 111. He has recorded 11 half-centuries, with a top score of 92 not out. To reach the 2,000-run milestone, he requires just 96 more runs. Additionally, he has claimed 91 wickets at an average of 35.50, with his best bowling figures being 4 for 24, leaving him just nine wickets shy of the 100-wicket mark.
Joining an Exclusive Club
Should he achieve this remarkable double, Hardik will join an elite cadre of Indian cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar (18,426 runs and 154 wickets), Sourav Ganguly (11,363 runs and 100 wickets), and Yuvraj Singh (8,701 runs and 111 wickets). This feat has also been accomplished by international stars such as Sanath Jayasuriya, Viv Richards, Shane Watson, and Jacques Kallis.
Squads for the Series
India Squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (w), Washington Sundar, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja. New Zealand Squad: Devon Conway (w), Will Young, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell (c), Zakary Foulkes, Nick Kelly, Josh Clarkson, Michael Rae, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Hay, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Jayden Lennox.