“Hugely beneficial to have an all-rounder,” says Dhawan on Pandya and Jadhav

Dhawan on Pandya and Jadhav: The Indian opening batsman was vocal about the role of an all-rounder irrespective of the format.

There is no hiding to the fact that the Indian team has missed a sixth bowling-option during the ongoing ODI series against Australia. In the general run of things, India usually have the cushion of Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav.

Apart from completing the fifth bowler’s quota, the duo has at times provided cover for a specialist bowler as well. Neither of them playing in this series became a problem for both India captain Virat Kohli in both the ODIs.

While Pandya has been suspended for his misogynist comments on renowned talk show Koffee With Karan, Jadhav wasn’t included in the playing XI to accommodate an extra batsman in Dinesh Karthik.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference, India opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan was asked about the same. The 33-year old left-hand batsman opined the presence of both the all-rounders provide ample balance to the Indian side.

“When Hardik is a part of the side, he lends to the balance of the side, which is a strong sign for our team. Even with Kedar in the side, his off-spin is very valuable to the side.

“The presence of all-rounders provides the team with an extra edge. I’d go as far as to say that Kedar is out golden-arm. Every time he comes on to bowl, he takes a wicket. He has been crucial in breaking many-a-partnerships. It’s hugely beneficial for the side to have an all-rounder irrespective of the format,” Dhawan was quoted as saying.

India have played all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in the absence of Pandya. More of a bowling all-rounder, Jadeja might not be as adept as Pandya or Jadhav with the bat but has been the most economical bowler for India in the series. Moreover, he also affected a brilliant run-out to dismiss Australia batsman Usman Khawaja at Adelaide.