Former Indian legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar has opined that Hardik Pandya could do what Ravi Shastri did in the 1985 World Championship for the Indian team in the upcoming T20 World Cup. India had gone on to win the 1985 World Championship and Ravi Shastri had bagged the Player of the Tournament award.

Shastri had scored 182 runs in five matches at an average of 45.50. Furthermore, the left-arm orthodox spinner had also scalped eight wickets at an average of 20.45.

On the other hand, Hardik Pandya has been performing consistently since he made a return after injury. Pandya has tremendously improved his bowling and he has been consistently bowling around the 140 kmph mark.

As Pandya likes to bowl short, he is expected to get help from the Australian pitches, which are known for their extra bounce and pace.

The right-hander can also provide the finishing touches for the team and he is definitely an asset to the team. Pandya is expected to perform the fifth bowler’s duties and he is going to hold the key for the team in the T20 World Cup.

“Yes, I think he could possibly do what Ravi Shastri did in 1985 where Ravi was the outstanding performer with both bat and ball in the entire tournament. Some good catches as well. Hardik Pandya is capable of doing that,” Sunil Gavaskar said while talking to India Today.

The Little Master feels Pandya could not only make a huge difference with bat and ball but also he can deliver in the field.

“Don’t forget, at mid-off, he affects some electrifying run-outs as well. Direct hits at the bowler’s end, catching the batter inches short. It’s not just the bowling and the batting aspects of Hardik Pandya, the fielding aspect that could turn the game India’s way. I won’t be surprised if he is like the Ravi Shastri of 1985 if he is like the Champion of Champions,” he added.

India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on October 23.