Team India have been in scintillating form in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, winning all three of their group-stage matches convincingly. Rohit Sharma‘s men started their campaign with a dominant victory over Bangladesh, followed by an emphatic win against arch-rivals Pakistan. In their final league match, India showcased their all-round brilliance to defeat New Zealand by 44 runs, securing the top spot in their group.
With an unbeaten run in the tournament, India now sets its sights on the all-important semifinal against Australia. The high-voltage clash will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where both teams will battle for a place in the final.
Aakash Chopra picks India’s most valuable player
Ahead of the knockout stage, former Indian cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra has hailed Hardik Pandya as India’s most valuable player in white-ball cricket. The renowned commentator praised Pandya for his ability to perform in crucial moments and labeled him as India’s “clutch player.”
“If there is a clutch player, it’s Hardik Pandya. I am saying he is India’s most valuable player in white-ball cricket. Axar Patel also played a good knock. There was a question about why he was promoted as KL Rahul could have been sent if the batting was coming in the powerplay,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
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Why Chopra’s pick is dead accurate
Pandya’s importance in India’s white-ball setup cannot be overstated. As an explosive all-rounder, he brings balance to the team with his ability to contribute in multiple departments. His finishing abilities with the bat, effective seam bowling, and electric fielding make him an asset in limited-overs cricket.
Batting prowess – Pandya has consistently delivered with the bat in pressure situations, often playing match-winning knocks in the death overs. His aggressive approach allows India to accelerate in the final stages of an innings.
Bowling versatility – His ability to chip in with crucial overs provides India with a much-needed sixth bowling option. Pandya has proven his worth by taking key wickets in crunch moments.
Clutch performer – Be it ICC tournaments or bilateral series, Pandya has time and again stepped up when the team needed him the most, making him India’s go-to player in white-ball cricket.
With the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against Australia just around the corner, all eyes will be on Pandya to once again prove why he is India’s ultimate match-winner.
