'Since he's gone, that responsibility is on me' - Hardik Pandya on replicating MS Dhoni's style of play

The Men in Blue secured a comfortable victory against New Zealand in the third T20I of the series. India also won the series 2-1 after their excellent performance against the Kiwis on Wednesday, February 1. Shubman Gill and skipper Hardik Pandya were the stars of the night, as Gill went on to make the highest individual score by an Indian in T20Is with his unbeaten 126*.

Pandya impressed with both the bat and the ball. The Indian skipper registered marvellous bowling figures, as he only gave away 16 runs and took four wickets in the four overs he bowled. He was also named the Player of the Series for his performances in the three T20Is.

With each passing day, it is becoming more and more clear that Hardik Pandya is settling into his role as captain of the Indian side. The Indian skipper was instrumental as a captain and as a player in the team’s win against New Zealand.

I want to lead the front: Pandya

In the post-match press conference, skipper Hardik Pandya reflected on the role he is starting to play in the Indian side. He even compared his ambitions as captain to those of the legendary former skipper MS Dhoni.

"I've always enjoyed hitting sixes. But that's life, I've to evolve. I've believed in partnerships, and I want to give my batting partner and my team some assurance and calmness by being there. I've played more games than any of these guys; I've learned how to accept and swallow pressure and make sure everything is calm," Pandya said after the match.

"Maybe I have to get my strike rate down for that. Taking new roles is always that I look forward to. I want to take the new ball role too, because I don't want anyone to come and take that difficult role. If they're under pressure, then we are chasing the game. I want to lead the front. I've been working on my new ball skills," he added.

MS Dhoni's approach in the latter stages of his career was to rotate the strike frequently and allow the batter on the other end to play more aggressively. Pandya feels that he needs to take up responsibilities similar to that of Dhoni, and aims to evolve into a similar role down the line.

"I don't mind playing the role that somewhere down the line, Mahi used to play. At that time, I was young and hitting all around the park. But since he's gone, all of a sudden, that responsibility is on me. I don't mind that. We are getting results. It's okay if I have to play a little slow," the skipper further added.

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