The X-factor is what is required, says the former skipper Graeme Smith of the South African team. The former SA captain praises the both Dinesh Karthik and Hardik Pandya for their innings in the India vs. South Africa five match T20I series which eventually led towards a draw by 2-2 due to downpour in the fifth match. The India vs. South Africa five match T20I series was held at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium, Chennai.
Graeme Smith heaping praises on Hardik referred him to be the X-factor who brings balance in the Indian team. Whereas for ‘DK’ (Dinesh Karthik) he expressed him to be the integral part of the Indian squad with lot experience and finishing role abilities. Graeme known for his practical attitude restricted himself in commenting to much, but still he stated in the YouTube channel he also mentioned Bhuveneshwar Kumar, who was declared the player of the series, referring him to be great bowler with great skills and abilities.
Graeme Smith was asked about whom he really feels can be selected as the wicketkeeper from the four options named as DK, Pant, Kishan and of course Sanju Samson if he would select the two, he would take in the world cup and why? In response he said,
“I think I’ll take Karthik & Rishabh Pant to the world cup; I think those will be there the two player to back, I am not sure who will be the front line on the day it’d probably go down to the balance of their team but I would that those would be the two that are in the squad”
He also insisted to add Ravindra Jadeja as an option in the squad as allrounder and which opens a lot of options with the two allrounders.
“Mentally he looks like he has settled. He knows how to go about his work and he is also that all-rounder X-Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options, with those two all-rounders. So, I can’t see that those two not making it to the 15 (World Cup squad)”
He was seen stating all of the above on the YouTube channel from Cricket.com.
Rishabh has been rested for the match against Ireland however, taking his place would be Hardik Pandya who will be leading the team. India vs Ireland first T20I will be commencing from 26th June in Dublin.
