Indian cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the Asia Cup 2025, but all eyes will be on one man in particular, Hardik Pandya. The star all-rounder is closing in on a landmark achievement that could place him among the legends of T20 cricket.
Pandya needs just six wickets to etch his name in history as the first Indian cricketer to record the unique double of 100 wickets and 1000 runs in T20 internationals. If he succeeds, he will not only break new ground for India but also become just the third player worldwide to accomplish this rare feat.
The Rare Club: Shakib and Nabi
Only two players in the history of T20 internationals have managed this all-round double so far:
- Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh): A genuine match-winner with both bat and ball, Shakib has dominated T20Is for over a decade. His ability to contribute consistently in both departments has set the benchmark for all-rounders worldwide.
- Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan): Known for his calm presence and utility in pressure situations, Nabi has been the backbone of Afghanistan cricket. His dual contributions have earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable T20 all-rounders.
Should Pandya join this list, it will underscore his evolution from a hard-hitting lower-order batter to one of India’s most complete white-ball cricketers.
Hardik’s Numbers So Far
- Matches Played: 114
- Runs Scored: 1812 (including 5 fifties)
- Wickets Taken: 94
These numbers reflect Pandya’s versatility. While he is often remembered for his finishing ability with the bat smashing bowlers in the death overs his knack for breaking partnerships with the ball has been equally vital for India.
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Why This Feat Matters
For Indian cricket, all-rounders have always been a prized asset. From Kapil Dev’s heroics in 1983 to Yuvraj Singh’s match-winning spells and six-hitting ability in 2007, players who can balance batting and bowling have often been game-changers.
Hardik Pandya stepping into this rare statistical zone would:
- Highlight his longevity in a format that often burns out players quickly.
- Reaffirm his importance as India’s go-to man in crunch moments.
- Place him in elite company, showing that Indian cricket has finally produced a modern-day T20 all-rounder of global stature.
Pandya’s Role in Recent Triumphs
The past year has arguably been the best phase of Hardik Pandya’s career.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Pandya was instrumental in India’s successful campaign, making crucial runs under pressure and providing vital breakthroughs with the ball.
- Champions Trophy 2025: Once again, Pandya stood tall, proving his value in big tournaments. His adaptability across conditions was a major factor in India lifting the trophy.
Such performances have silenced critics who once questioned his fitness and consistency. Today, Pandya is not just a squad player — he is one of the leaders in India’s white-ball setup.
The Asia Cup 2025: A Crucial Stage
The upcoming Asia Cup, starting 9th September 2025, presents the perfect opportunity for Pandya to cross the 100-wicket milestone. India’s group-stage matches will be closely followed, with the high-profile clash against Pakistan set to grab global attention.
India’s Group Matches:
- vs United Arab Emirates – 10th September, Dubai International Stadium
- vs Pakistan – 14th September, Dubai International Stadium
- vs Oman – Group-stage finale, Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Given the opposition, Pandya will likely be called upon to make an impact with both bat and ball. UAE and Oman may offer him wicket-taking chances, while the Pakistan encounter could test his nerves and experience.
What Makes Pandya Stand Out
- Batting Flexibility: Unlike traditional finishers, Pandya has shown he can anchor innings or explode at the death, depending on the situation.
- Bowling Utility: His medium pace might not be express speed, but his ability to use variations, slower balls, and cutters makes him lethal on subcontinental pitches.
- Leadership Qualities: Having captained India and his IPL franchise, Pandya has proven his ability to inspire teammates, especially in tense games.
This mix of skills makes him a rare breed — and achieving 100 wickets alongside 1000 runs would only reinforce his value.
Expert Take
Cricket analysts believe Pandya’s achievement, if realized, could mark a turning point in how Indian cricket views all-rounders in T20Is. Former cricketers have often lamented India’s reliance on specialist batters and bowlers in the shortest format, but Pandya’s success could inspire a new generation of players to embrace both roles.
Moreover, reaching this milestone in a continental tournament like the Asia Cup where the spotlight is intense — would make the feat even more memorable.
Final Thoughts
As the Asia Cup 2025 approaches, Hardik Pandya is not just chasing personal glory. He carries with him the hopes of millions who see him as a symbol of India’s modern T20 dominance. With six wickets separating him from history, every delivery he bowls in the tournament will be watched with anticipation.
If he does manage to join the elite company of Shakib Al Hasan and Mohammad Nabi, it won’t just be a personal triumph, it will be a statement that India has finally found its long-term T20 all-rounder. Hardik Pandya’s journey has already been remarkable, but this milestone could elevate him into a category reserved only for the finest in the game.
