By Zainab Shafiq 
With leadership changes shaking up Indian cricket, Hardik Pandya’s future as a potential white-ball captain remains uncertain. Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar believes Pandya’s long-term captaincy prospects hinge on two key factors—his commitment to domestic cricket and evolving selection policies within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Pandya has led India in 16 T20Is, but a recent shake-up saw Suryakumar Yadav take over as the T20I skipper under the new leadership of selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Manjrekar, speaking on Star Sports’ show ‘Deep Point,’ pointed out that changes in BCCI management and selection committees often bring new approaches to leadership choices.
“The landscape of Indian cricket can shift with every new selection panel. Each committee has its own vision. If Pandya wants to remain a serious candidate for captaincy, he needs to show greater commitment to playing regularly, especially in domestic formats,” Manjrekar noted.
Highlighting Pandya’s past performances, he recalled the all-rounder’s crucial role in the 2019 World Cup in England. “He was India’s go-to bowler on those tracks, and his contributions were often overlooked,” he added. However, Manjrekar cautioned that Pandya’s effectiveness in ODIs depends heavily on his fitness.
“Unlike T20s, where bursts of intensity are key, ODIs require sustained physical endurance, especially for an all-rounder expected to bowl seven to ten overs and bat in the middle order.”
Meanwhile, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar sees Pandya as India’s best finisher since MS Dhoni. With 1769 runs at a strike rate of over 110 and 84 wickets in ODIs, Pandya has showcased his ability to change the course of matches. Bangar believes Pandya’s game awareness and finishing ability mirror Dhoni’s approach.
“Pandya is the closest India has come to replicating Dhoni’s role as a finisher. He has shown the ability to anchor a chase, take games deep, and even rescue the team when they are in trouble,” Bangar remarked.
Bangar also praised Pandya’s maturity, particularly in gracefully handing over the T20I captaincy.
“Every cricketer dreams of leading their nation. Deep down, Pandya will still aspire to reclaim that role.”
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