IPL 2023: There might be captaincy burden on Hardik Pandya’s shoulders this year – Sanjay Manjrekar

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar reckons there could be a captaincy burden on Hardik Pandya’s shoulders in IPL 2023. Pandya had led Gujarat Titans with aplomb in the previous season, taking them to glory in their debut edition of the tournament.

Pandya scored 487 runs in 15 matches at an average of 44.27 and a strike rate of 131.26 in IPL 2022. Furthermore, he had scalped eight wickets in 15 matches of the previous season. Moreover, Pandya has grown in confidence as he has led India in T20Is, especially after the T20 World Cup in the absence of Rohit Sharma.

Manjrekar believes there will be the pressure of replicating the previous season’s success as a leader on Hardik Pandya.

Speaking on ESPN Cricinfo, Sanjay Manjrekar said, “If we talk as a player, there is no difference between now and his IPL 2022 form. We have seen him playing for India. He might not have made big scores, but the way he is hitting the ball, he looks in form. Hardik’s bowling has become even better and his fielding has always been excellent.”

“Captaincy would be interesting to talk about because he had nothing to lose last year as Gujarat Titans gambled by making him captain. However, there might be burden this year. Although I don’t see him getting affected by it, but we’ll have to see.”

Meanwhile, there has been a lot of talk about managing players’ workloads during the IPL. However, Manjrekar said he isn’t a fan of resting players during the tournament.

While playing 20 overs per side isn’t hard for modern-day players, who are fit as a fiddle but we must admit that traveling could take a toll on their bodies.

“IPL’s success can happen only when players are fit and they play with all their heart. It is a popular tournament among the fans. I’m not a big fan of resting players during IPL to keep them fresh during the World Cup because injuries can happen in international games too.

“Hence, players shouldn’t have restrictions during IPL and owners should have complete freedom to use their players, given they spend massive amounts of money. IPL needs to be given a special status.”

Gujarat Titans will begin their IPL 2023 campaign against Chennai Super League at their home ground of Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on 31st March.