IPL 2022: We have to be patient – Vikram Solanki provides update on Hardik Pandya’s fitness

Gujarat Titans Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki has provided a crucial update on Hardik Pandya’s fitness ahead of the 15th season of the Indian Premier League.

Pandya has been out of action due to injury and he will be looking to hit the ground running for Gujarat Titans.

Pandya will lead Gujarat Titans in the upcoming season and it will be the first time that he would be seen in the leadership role. On the other hand, Pandya is well known for his pyrotechnics with the bat whereas it will be interesting to note his bowling fitness.

Pandya had not bowled in IPL 2021 for Mumbai Indians and had recently revealed that it will be a surprise whether he will bowl or not in the upcoming IPL.

In an interview with Telegraph, the former England opener said, “Hardik is working extremely hard in all aspects of his game, from the rehabilitation and recovery point of view. He is conscious that he has to get up to speed with batting, bowling, and fielding… He is on his path to recovery and playing a full part but we have to be patient with the demands.”

“Remember, he is coming back from an injury. Hardik as a batsman is an exceptional addition to any team. But if we take batting, bowling, and fielding together, then he’s a complete package. But having said all that, we have to be conscious of his long-term plans. We are very happy with the way he is progressing.”

Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya has had the experience of playing for Mumbai Indians and won four championships with the Rohit Sharma-led team. Pandya must have learned a lot and he has also played under the captaincy of Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. Ergo, he would look to implement his learnings when he will lead GT in the forthcoming season.

“We see in Hardik the qualities that can turn him into a successful and very fine captain. We have spoken a couple of times about his track record as far as winning IPL titles is concerned.”

“He has been part of our leadership group and has taken a lot of learnings from other captains like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and MS Dhoni. He will use all that learning in developing himself as a captain and will be well backed by the support staff.”

Gujarat Titans will begin their IPL 2022 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on 28th March at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.