Former India batter Mohammed Kaif has reignited the debate around India’s batting order ahead of the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, questioning the team management’s decision to promote Hardik Pandya to No. 5.

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India entered their Super 8 opener against South Africa national cricket team unbeaten in the tournament, but concerns over the batting structure remain. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif pointed out that Hardik does not typically bat at No. 5 and suggested that India’s left-heavy top order could make their strategy predictable.

“Why is Hardik Pandya coming at number five? He does not usually bat there. In Delhi, he played at No. 5 against Namibia because there were many left-handers. To maintain the left-right combination, he had to move up. But when you have too many left-handers, it becomes easier for the opposition to plan,” Kaif said.

Hardik has batted at No. 5 in two of India’s four group games, scoring 52 against Namibia national cricket team and a duck against Pakistan national cricket team. The mixed returns highlight the tactical gamble, though the move appears aimed at preserving a left-right balance through the middle overs.

Hardik Pandya’s numbers so far

Across four group-stage matches, Hardik has scored 87 runs at an average of 21.75 and a strike rate of 155.35. While those figures may not indicate outright dominance, they reflect his aggressive intent and finishing ability. His contributions with the ball have further reinforced his importance to the side’s overall balance.

His role has varied depending on match situations. At times, he has been promoted to stabilise the innings; in others, he has been held back to close out the game. That flexibility makes the No. 5 debate more layered than it initially appears.

Against Netherlands, Hardik once again showcased his all-round value. He smashed a brisk 30 off 21 balls in partnership with Shivam Dube to power India to 193, and later returned figures of 1/40. Though he conceded 18 runs in the 19th over, India sealed a 17-run victory to finish the group stage unbeaten with four wins in four.

With tougher challenges looming in the Super 8s — beginning with South Africa in Ahmedabad — India’s batting order will face greater scrutiny. Whether Hardik at No. 5 proves to be a tactical masterstroke or a talking point will depend on how he performs in the high-pressure phase of the tournament.