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Shoaib Akhtar and Hardik Pandya (Source:X)
The build-up to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final has taken an unexpected turn after former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar made an indirect remark about India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya while praising England's Will Jacks.
The comment, made during a discussion on Tapmad's YouTube channel, has drawn mixed reactions from fans, with some praising the comparison while others criticising the wording of the statement.
Shoaib Akhtar's 'Goron Ka Hardik Pandya' remark sparks debate
Shoaib Akhtar was discussing England's performance in the second semi-final against India when he praised Will Jacks for his impressive all-round display.
Will Jacks bowled well and picked up two important wickets during the match. He also contributed with the bat, scoring a quick 35 runs from just 20 balls in a tense chase.
While appreciating Will Jacks, Shoaib Akhtar compared the English all-rounder to Hardik Pandya. However, the way he framed the comparison became the talking point.
"But then there’s Will Jacks again. He bowled brilliantly and took two wickets. He is a wonderful player and he scores runs as well. He is 'Goron ka Hardik Pandya' (Hardik Pandya of the whites). He always contributes," Akhtar said during the discussion.
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The remark quickly spread on social media, sparking debate among fans. Some viewers felt the comparison was simply meant as praise for Will Jacks' all-round abilities, while others argued that the phrase used by Shoaib Akhtar sounded insensitive and inappropriate.
Will Jacks shine despite England's exit
Although England failed to reach the final, Will Jacks delivered several strong performances throughout the tournament. In eight matches, he scored 226 runs in 8 innings at a strike rate of 176.56 and an average of 56.50.
With the ball, Will Jacks also made valuable contributions. He picked up nine wickets in seven innings, maintaining an economy rate of 9.75.
Even in the semi-final against India, Will Jacks tried to keep England in the contest. His two wickets helped slow down India’s scoring rate for a brief period, while his quick 35 runs added momentum to England’s chase.
However, England ultimately fell short, losing the match by seven runs.
Hardik Pandya key to India's title hopes
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya remains one of India’s most important players as the team prepares to face New Zealand in the final on March 8 in Ahmedabad. India, the defending champions, are aiming to become the first team to win the T20 World Cup three times.
Hardik Pandya has played a major role in India’s journey to the final. In the semi-final against England, he played a crucial cameo, smashing 27 runs off just 12 balls with a strike rate of 225.
Overall in the tournament, Hardik Pandya has scored 199 runs in eight matches at a strike rate of over 163, including two half-centuries. He has also been effective with the ball, taking eight wickets with an economy rate of 8.79.
As India prepares for a high-pressure final against New Zealand, Hardik's all-round skills could once again prove decisive.
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