Hardik Pandya's 'ability to...' - Australian great explains why India are best team in world after Champions Trophy 2025 triumph

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India's emphatic triumph in the Champions Trophy 2025 has cemented their reputation as the best team in world cricket, and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting believes Hardik Pandya's all-round abilities played a crucial role in their success.

Rick Ponting highlighted how Pandya's presence, alongside other all-rounders, gave India unmatched balance, making them the most complete side in the tournament.

Speaking to ICC, Ponting stated, "They were a very well-balanced side anyway, but because they had so many all-rounders... when you've got Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, who they used up the order on a number of occasions for that left-handed option, and with Jadeja there as well, they were a very well-balanced team."

While India's squad was packed with batting firepower, Ponting pointed out that they seemed slightly light on frontline fast bowlers. However, Pandya's ability to deliver crucial overs nullified any concerns. "The only thing you would probably say, they probably looked a little bit light on fast bowling, but as it turned out, they didn't need that," Ponting remarked.

Pandya's skill with the new ball allowed India to control matches early on, giving the spinners more freedom to dominate in the middle overs. "That's where Hardik Pandya's role becomes really important-to be able to bowl with a new ball and get through some overs early to make it a little bit easier for the spinners in the backend of their Powerplay and also through the middle overs where they predominantly bowl," he added.

India's Unrivaled Dominance

With Pandya leading the charge as a game-changing all-rounder, India displayed unparalleled versatility in the tournament. Their ability to adapt to different match situations, coupled with the depth provided by players like Jadeja and Axar, made them an unstoppable force.

Ponting's analysis underlines why India are currently the best team in the world-boasting a perfect mix of power hitters, crafty spinners, and, most importantly, multi-dimensional players like Pandya who can influence the game in multiple ways. As they look ahead to future challenges, this Indian squad has set a new benchmark for dominance in international cricket.