Former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has praised India's performance in the T20 World Cup, highlighting Hardik Pandya's impressive bowling and Rishabh Pant's effective role at the number three position as the standout positives from the group stage.
India advanced to the Super Eight stage unbeaten, having triumphed over Ireland, Pakistan, and the USA. Their final group match against Canada was called off due to a wet outfield in Florida.
"The biggest positive is that Hardik Pandya took wickets. He was the fourth bowler in this tournament, but if you look at his wicket tally, he has exceeded expectations," Harbhajan said on 'Star Sports'.
Pandya, who entered the World Cup after a poor run in the IPL, has taken seven wickets and bowled at full capacity, dispelling any doubts about his fitness.
Pant, returning to international cricket after a life-threatening car accident in 2022, has also been in excellent form, boasting a strike rate of 124.67 in the tournament.
"Another big positive is Rishabh Pant playing at number three. His role was completely changed. Before this World Cup, we thought Sanju Samson would play because he has made big runs. But promoting Rishabh Pant to number three has created a valuable left-right combination," Harbhajan added.
India's Super Eight campaign kicks off against Afghanistan on June 20 in Barbados. Harbhajan believes the team is well-equipped to handle new conditions, having played all its previous matches in the USA.
"There are a lot of positives. Of course, there are challenges and difficulties, but the challenges come to those who are brave. This team is made up of brave players. They fought well and played very well, which is why they topped the group," he said.
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