Once a utility all-rounder for India, Hardik Pandya’s role with the ball has been limited since his return to professional cricket post a back surgery in 2019. Former India fast bowler Ajit Agarkar reckons the all-rounder needs to be used as a bowling option for Virat Kohli during the limited-overs series against Sri Lanka. India have been struggling to find a sixth bowling option, which was evident in the ODI series against England earlier this year, and Agarkar feels Pandya can fill that role. He can play as a pure batsman but you need Hardik to bowl, you saw in England series when he couldn't bowl earlier on, how much pressure was on Indian bowlers." The India vs Sri Lanka ODI series will begin on Sunday, with the three ODIs taking place on July 18, 20, and 23.

Source: Hindustan Times July 14, 2021 10:18 UTC