With the T20 World Cup 2026 around the corner and teams fine-tuning their combinations, discussions around impact players and match-winners are gaining momentum. Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has now stirred the debate by naming a star all-rounder as the most valuable player in world T20 cricket at present. Clarke’s assessment underlines not just individual brilliance but the growing importance of multi-dimensional cricketers in the shortest format.

Michael Clarke on the ‘number one buy in T20 cricket’ at present

Speaking in an interview with Revsportz, Clarke made a bold claim while reflecting on Team India’s recent performances. According to him, if there was a hypothetical auction to buy just one T20 player, Hardik Pandya would be his first pick without hesitation.

Clarke highlighted Hardik’s ability to influence games across all three departments. Whether it is explosive batting in the middle and death overs, bowling crucial spells under pressure, or providing athleticism in the field, Hardik offers unmatched balance to any side. Clarke believes this versatility makes him irreplaceable, especially in conditions that demand adaptability.

One of the key reasons Clarke backed Hardik so strongly was his proven success in Indian conditions. With the 2026 T20 World Cup set to be played in India and Sri Lanka, players who understand slow surfaces, grip, and changing match tempos are expected to thrive.

Hardik’s experience of playing domestic cricket, IPL seasons, and international matches in the subcontinent gives him an edge. Clarke pointed out that Hardik knows when to attack and when to absorb pressure, a skill that often defines knockout matches in major tournaments.

“This is a big call. I was watching India play the other night, and I think Hardik is the most important player in the world in T20 cricket currently. He’s my number one buy in T20 cricket. If I had to buy one player, I think it’d be Hardik Pandya, especially if you’re playing in Indian conditions. He is important with bat, ball, and in the field,” said Clarke in an interview with Revsportz.

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Clarke on the Player of the Tournament prediction

While Hardik is not India’s captain, Clarke stressed that leadership is not limited to wearing the armband. He praised Hardik’s cricketing intelligence, calling him an “amazing tactician” who reads the game exceptionally well. According to Clarke, senior players like Hardik play a crucial role in guiding bowlers, adjusting fields, and making on-field tactical calls. In high-pressure tournaments, this kind of leadership can quietly swing games without drawing too much attention.

“He’s an amazing tactician too. So I think, captaincy-wise, as a senior player, in spite of not being the captain, he can help because he reads the game well,” explained the former Aussie skipper.

Clarke went a step further by suggesting that fans should not be surprised if Hardik ends the tournament as the Player of the Series. Such a statement underlines the level of expectation surrounding the Indian all-rounder heading into the global event. India’s success in T20 tournaments has often depended on players who can deliver in crunch moments. Clarke believes Hardik fits that profile perfectly and could be central to India’s campaign in 2026.

“I think he’s massive for India’s success in this campaign. Don’t be surprised if Hardik gets Player of the Series,” added Clarke.

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