Hardik Pandya finds this former Indian player very relatable

Gujarat have been absolutely brilliant in the Indian T20 League 2022 so far. Not only have they qualified for the playoffs, but they have also ensured that they remain at the top of the points table and thus, get two chances to make it to the final. They recently beat Chennai by seven wickets.

This was their 10th win in the 13 games of the 2022 edition. Thus, several pundits and analysts have gone on to praise Gujarat's head coach Ashish Nehra. He has ensured that the Gujarat-based franchise stamps their authority in just their maiden Indian T20 League season.

As a matter of fact, their captain Hardik Pandya had heaps of praises for Nehra as well. The all-rounder stated that he and Gujarat's head coach have a similar mindset. He said that he connects with the 43-year-old. Further on, he also went on assess his own captaincy.

"Ashish Nehra and me are very similar in terms of mindsets. Our game sense... the best thing is without saying I kind of connect with him.

(When asked to assess his own captaincy) You put me on a spot. Yes, I would say I did pretty alright because having played in a previous franchise where a lot of responsibility was given to us as well and the kind of cricketer I am, I have always enjoyed responsibility where it kind of gives me ownership of things where I can control," said Hardik Pandya in the post-match presentation after Gujarat's victory over Chennai.

As they have already secured their spot at the top of the points table, the Pandya-led side can rest a few of their players during their final game of the group stage. Thus, the Gujarat skipper drew light on the same. While mentioning that they want to give opportunities to new players, Pandya also stated that they wanted their core to remain intact, and ensure that they get enough match practice ahead of the playoffs.

"We will see if any players need a game off to be fresh for the playoffs, otherwise for us it is important to keep the momentum. Obviously we want to give opportunities to new players, but we also want to ensure the core group playing throughout the season is intact and getting the match practice they require before the playoffs. Yes we might change here and there, fast bowlers if needed, but otherwise we will be similar," he added.