India, now gearing up for the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final on Tuesday in Dubai the boys have come out of New Zealand victory riding on high confidence. While former India batsman Aakash Chopra rated Hardik Pandya as the most valuable white-ball player of the country, he is a man who could always be relied upon to deliver under pressure. In the final match of their formidable India once more vindicated himself once again, with a 45 not out including four fours and a six helped set India a challenging target of 249 when it really mattered for them.

Aakash Chopra Hails Hardik Pandya As India’s Ultimate White-Ball Match-Winner

Hailing Hardik Pandya as India’s best white ball player in aftermath of his record smashing 93 not out in Second Test, Former cricketer Aakash Chopra said that he can play, can answer on big stages. If clutch player then Hardik right. Chopra said “I am literally saying he is the most valuable player in white-ball cricket for India. He was cool as ever playing the length balls out there against New Zealand, smashing six fours. Yes there is pressure but he bats at the end of the order. He stayed till the last…Whenever pressure is there… the man who takes up the challenge and is counted,” added Chopra.

Hardik Pandya’s Presence Brings Crucial Balance To India’s Lineup

Pandya addition gives balance and Chopra also explained how this is good for Indian lineup. “Hardik is clutch that balances,” he added pointing that he comes in if India has to field two overseas pacemakers. Pandya is costly to drop, because India would have had to field an extra fast bowler without Pandya (as Harshit Rana cannot go down) Two always good to play with, at least on the front foot end of things, according to Chopra basically meaning Pandya is essential in India’s set up.