McMillan Highlights India’s Need for Fast-Bowling All-Rounder in SENA Conditions

CHENNAI: Former New Zealand player Craig McMillan commented on Monday that the Indian cricket team requires a seam bowling all-rounder, akin to Hardik Pandya, particularly when competing in overseas Test matches.

During a media interaction in Chennai, coinciding with the New Zealand women’s team practice, McMillan observed that India possesses talented spin-bowling all-rounders such as Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, who are well-suited for Asian pitches.

He emphasized the importance of a fast-bowling all-rounder for success in regions such as New Zealand, Australia, and England, where conditions favor pace bowlers.

“Spin-bowling all-rounders like Jadeja, Washington, or R Ashwin are valuable in Asian conditions. However, in New Zealand, Australia, and England, a fast-bowling all-rounder is essential.”

“India currently lacks a player similar to Hardik Pandya, who provides medium-pace bowling and contributes lower down the batting order. Ben Stokes, for England, effectively fills two roles,” McMillan stated.

Addressing the topic of India’s new Test captain, Shubman Gill, McMillan acknowledged his leadership during the England tour. However, he also pointed out that errors are unavoidable in a captain’s first series.

“He seems to be a promising captain. The initial series presents significant challenges. He likely committed some errors under pressure, but this is expected in his first series. He will improve as he gains more experience.”

McMillan restated that while India boasts quality spin-bowling all-rounders suited for Asian conditions, they are missing a pace-bowling all-rounder who can perform well in New Zealand, Australia, and England.

“He represents the future, and India will invest in his development. He will become more familiar with his team’s strategy, which I believe is very important, and their playing style,” he concluded.

Notably, Hardik Pandya’s last Test appearance was in August 2018. Across 11 Tests, he has accumulated 532 runs at an average of 31.29 and claimed 17 wickets at an average of 31.06.