Debasis Sen, Pallekele: Hardik Pandya seems to be ticking all the boxes at the moment. The all rounder from Baroda seems to be doing no wrong. Pandya on Sunday brought up his maiden test ton here at the Pallekele International Stadium. In doing so, he smashed 7 fours and sixes, as he became the only Indian batsman to score most runs before lunch. The previous best was held by Virender Sehwag, when he scored 99 runs before lunch against West Indies at St. Lucia in 2006.
The selection committee headed by MSK Prasad feels that Pandya has the potential to match the legendary Kapil Dev, provided the all-rounder stays grounded. “If he keeps his head steady he can go a long way.”
Prasad, who is here in Sri Lanka with the team also added, “He has all the qualities to become a good all-rounder, provided he stays grounded.”
Pandya has all the qualities to develop into a match winning all rounder for India. Since Kapils retirement in 1994, India could never find a all-rounder of his calibre. Irfan Pathan was the last genuine fast bowling all-rounder after Kapil Dev.
The selection committee chairman also felt, “He is turning out to be a vital cog in the team across all formats. I hope he can keep on performing like this.”
It has being observed here during the practice sessions here that Hardik spending a lot of time with Coach Ravi Shastri and bowling coach Bharat Arun. The team management feels the all rounder can add to the balance of the squad. With his athleticism, exuberance and positive attitude, he has all the acumen to succeed in international cricket.
Pandya has got huge support from the team management with skipper Virat Kohli making it clear that the 23-year-old was destined for bigger things. “I don’t see any reason why he can’t do for India