The Indian national team has shifted its attention to limited-overs cricket, starting with a three-match ODI series against Australia on March 17. This clash is viewed as a perfect rehearsal for the upcoming ODI World Cup taking place in India later this year. The team will be missing their captain, Rohit Sharma, for the series opener due to family obligations.
Hardik Pandya will take charge of the team in Rohit's absence. Given his success as the Gujarat Titans' captain, many experts expect him to excel in this leadership role. Sunil Gavaskar, a giant of Indian cricket, believes it is only a matter of time before the captaincy is handed to Pandya on a full-time basis.
According to Gavaskar during a 'Game Plan' discussion, Pandya's strength as a leader lies in the rapport he builds with his squad. He has a way of making his teammates feel at ease, often providing a supportive presence that encourages them to express themselves on the field. This ability to create a low-pressure environment is vital for players to perform at their best.
Gavaskar also highlighted that Pandya is a genuine game-changer in the middle order who isn't afraid of responsibility. He leads by example, never asking his teammates to do something he wouldn't do himself. The former legend noted that if Pandya leads India to victory in the first ODI, he could be seen as the definitive successor for the captaincy once the 2023 World Cup concludes.