IPL 2022: Hardik has qualities to become a successful captain, says Vikram Solanki
However, Vikram feels Hardik's learnings from MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will help him when he leads the Gujarat Titans. "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," Solanki told The Telegraph.
"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," he added. The Titans open their IPL 2022 campaign against another new franchise in Lucknow Super Giants on March 28 at the Wankhede Stadium.
Notably, Hardik has not played any international cricket since the T20 World Cup last year and he also skipped the domestic tournaments. However, Solanki mentioned that Pandya is working extremely hard in his rehabilitation, adding that it's important to be patient with the star all-rounder.
"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," he said.