Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan offered a sharp and honest evaluation of Hardik Pandya’s subdued batting show in the second T20I in Mullanpur. Hardik, who entered during a tense chase, managed just 20 runs off 23 deliveries and never found the momentum India desperately needed. Known for his explosive finishing ability, the Indian captain looked unusually restricted, striking only one six and failing to find boundaries on a surface that demanded adaptability. This unexpected dip came right after his match-winning fifty in the first T20I in Cuttack.
Pathan highlighted that the drastic change in pitch conditions played a major role in Hardik’s struggles. He pointed out that while Hardik looked comfortable on the truer wicket earlier, he was unable to adjust on a slower pitch that required more footwork and variation instead of his typical stand-and-hit approach. Pathan wrote on X that Hardik’s style didn’t sync with the surface, emphasising that batsmen must adjust when the pitch doesn’t offer pace or bounce.
The former cricketer also discussed concerns surrounding Shubman Gill’s extended rough patch in T20Is, noting that the dip in form is a major worry ahead of the T20 World Cup. Gill, along with Suryakumar Yadav, is under scrutiny as India reeled from a 51-run defeat after being bowled out for 162 while chasing 214. Tilak Varma was the lone positive in an otherwise disappointing batting display, with Indian bowlers also struggling after delivering 13 full tosses.
Pathan stressed that India must quickly address form concerns, execution problems and tactical adjustments to stay competitive in the remainder of the series. His comments underline the urgency for India’s senior players to rediscover rhythm before entering a crucial tournament year.
