"There are only 2-3 players like Hardik Pandya in the world.." Gautam Gambhir showers praise on star Indian all-rounder

Published at :March 13, 2025 at 3:40 PM

Modified at :March 13, 2025 at 3:40 PM

(Courtesy : Getty Images)

Hardik Pandya scored 99 runs in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

India won their third ICC Champions Trophy title by defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final of 2025 edition on March 9 in Dubai.

They had a fantastic campaign and won all five games. In a complete team effort, every player stepped up to seize the important moments in the game throughout the tournament.

Tasked with playing as a second seamer in the last three games, Hardik Pandya stepped up to his new role in the team. He not only bowled economically, but also took key wickets in the competition.

With the bat, Pandya scored 99 runs in five games and contributed 28 and 18 runs in the semi-final and final against Australia and New Zealand, helping the team cross the finish line.

India coach Gautam Gambhir has now praised the 31-year-old, calling him a unique talent in world cricket.

Gautam Gambhir showers praise on Hardik Pandya

Speaking to Star Sports after India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, Gambhir stated that there are only two or three players like Hardik Pandya in the world. He also highlighted that Pandya’s ability to play big shots under pressure makes him special.

Gambhir said, “Hardik Pandya is a great player under pressure. There are only two-three players like him in the world. He has the ability to play big shots in difficult times and his impact is fantastic.“

Pandya’s next assignment is leading Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. After a tough last season where he was targeted by the MI fan base, the all-rounder will look to turn things around in his second season as captain.

MI will start their IPL 2025 season against arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 23 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

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