Former Indian batsman, VVS Laxman has explained why India has not been able to find an all-rounder like Kapil Dev in the modern era. The closest India has come to Kapil Dev in the last 15 years is Hardik Pandya. VVS Laxman said that one of the reasons that India has been unable to find an all-rounder is because of the workload in recent times.

The Sunrisers Hyderabad coach did not take any names but stated that Hardik Pandya has had back issues therefore he has not been able to bowl in the last year or so. Hardik Pandya recently started bowling for India but he has not bowled a single delivery in the IPL. VVS Laxman said that many of the all-rounders drop one or two skills owing to the workload.

“It’s a very difficult role being an all-rounder. Kapil paaji was someone who could take wickets and score runs. He was the ultimate match-winner for India. But with the amount of workload nowadays, it’s very, very difficult,” VVS Laxman said during a YouTube launch of a book.

“There were some glimpses from some players because they were focusing a lot on both the skills, ultimately with the amount of workload and matches the Indian team plays in three formats, it’s very difficult to manage.

“That player who has the ability to become a genuine all-rounder, unfortunately, gets injured and he has to compromise or he has to take a decision on either batting or bowling,” he asserted.

VVS Laxman backs Rishabh Pant for the T20 World Cup

The former Indian batsman also stated that Rishabh Pant should be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper. He said that Rishabh Pant is in fine form. The Delhi Capitals captain has been going through a purple patch since the Australia series. VVS Laxman stated that he should be one of the first players to be drafted into the squad for India.

“India is spoilt for choices. The way Sanju Samson has batted, kept and led Rajasthan Royals (in ongoing IPL), even though he did not have too much of experience (in captaining) a side. Then there’s Ishan Kishan. KL Rahul has done well whenever he got the gloves and batted either top of the order or in the middle.

“But somehow I just feel Rishabh Pant is the player whom you should pick for the wicketkeeper-batsman slot. I will definitely go for Pant. Not only that he’s really improved and impressed everyone with his keeping abilities.

“But as a left-handed batsman, he’s someone who can take away the game from any opposition in any situation in the middle overs,” VVS Laxman stated.