At the same time, captain Hardik Pandya scored India’s winning run in the second game. He made India win by hitting a six when 2 runs were needed to win. This time young player Tilak Verma was on the other side with 49 runs. Tilak missed the chance to score a half-century as Hardik finished the game quickly. This angered the fans.
A section of fans criticized Hardik for not giving Tilak a chance to score a half-century. But really, should Hardik be crucified in this incident? Sangeet Shekhar writes.
There are exactly two sides. Individual achievements have no relevance in the concept of team game. A decisive match in a two-game losing streak is quickly and clinically sealed. Unlike the Australian and English cricketing systems, fans and players have long been obsessed with records and individual achievements. That is why this is a problem. Let’s say the captain sends a proper message to the youngster, always put the team first.
Butt, the focus turned to Thilak Verma, a 20-year-old playing only the third international of his career, in the current state of the match, the first side being cancelled. As a captain, if Hardik had allowed the boy to score a half-century with the equation of 2 runs in 14 balls, there would have been no difference in the result or impact of the game, there would have been no element of risk.
Had India batted first, or at least 18 off 14 balls, there would have been no question. It was not a league to increase the net run rate. Such small supports from the captain and the team will keep a very positive mind set for the young player who is already playing with impossible confidence. Hardik, the hero, could have been a little more flexible in this regard. Tilak Verma is denied a dream start (record wise) with two half-centuries in the first 3 games. The captain is disappointing an up-and-coming young batsman.
But Tilak need not despair at all. He has a glittering career ahead of him. A very impressive start in one of the most difficult formats to be consistent with. India’s wait for a quality lefty in the middle order is over. Thilak Verma is a terrific player.
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