"In a similar ability-zone as someone like Ben Stokes" - Scott Styris on Hardik Pandya ahead of India vs Sri Lanka T20Is

Former New Zealand cricketer Scott Styris believes all-rounder Hardik Pandya is as skilled as England's Test captain Ben Stokes in terms of ability. Hardik has been named in India's T20I squad for the three-match series against Sri Lanka in Pallekele, beginning on July 27.

While Styris rates Hardik high for his skills, he feels the Indian all-rounder lacks the consistency in performances needed to be considered an elite cricketer. Styris indirectly highlighted the fitness concerns around Hardik.

Speaking to PTI, here's what Scott Styris had to say about Hardik Pandya:

"This champion all-rounder (Pandya) has got as many skills as anyone. He's probably in a similar ability-zone as someone like Ben Stokes. He's got much more talent than that (his recent performances). He is a phenomenally skilled cricketer. But he hasn't quite shown it yet as consistently enough for my liking. So, just let him get out there and just say, you've got to lead us now by your performance."

Styris feels Hardik should take his fitness to the level where he is playing every single game available for the Men in Blue, which would give him the best possible chance of delivering consistent performances.

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"I want to see Hardik Pandya be a genuine all-rounder" - Scott Styris

Scott Styris further claimed that he wanted Hardik Pandya to be a dependable player and not just a finisher who could chip in with a few overs whenever needed. Styris feels that Hardik has the ability to reach those levels he expects. On this, he stated:

"I want to see him get his body right and be that dominant all-rounder that we know. Bowling is really hard work and he is someone who's got all the skills and talent. I want to see him be that genuine all-rounder and as someone whom you can rely on with both bat and ball, not just the odd over here with the ball and come in with a cameo."

Hardik's fitness concern was one of the reasons given by chief selector Ajit Agarkar behind his not being named as Rohit Sharma's successor in India's T20I captaincy role. Suryakumar Yadav has been named as the captain for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka.