Krunal Pandya aims to make his mark in South Africa tour

Hardik and Krunal Pandya have emerged to be absolute assets for any team and are oozing with confidence. While Hardik has already announced himself into the international scene following a memorable IPL, Krunal is yet to make his entry.

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The elder of the two promising brothers, Krunal, has been doing everything right since his return from injury. After his comeback, the highly talented all-rounder grabbed the limelight in the blue and silver colours of the Mumbai Indians. The 26-year-old caught everyone’s eyes with solid performances with the bat, ball and on the field.

Speaking about the time when he was forced to the sidelines due to injury, Krunal said “The injury made me mentally stronger. It taught me how to fight the difficulties and overcome the hurdles. I must thank More Sir (Kiran More) and Jasbir Sir for giving me the confidence.”

After recovering from the injury Krunal Pandya rose up to the occasion in the Vijay Hazare Trophy becoming the highest run scorer for the team. He said “I think I am picked in the A side for my performance in domestic cricket. I had a great run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.”

Pandya thanked his IPL franchise Mumbai Indians after his selection in the India A side because of giving him the platform to display his potential.

“This is a lifetime opportunity for me. I would first like to thank the Mumbai Indians management. Had they not picked me in 2016, I would not have got an opportunity to showcase my talent.”

Pandya has already begun his preparations for the South Africa tour. Considering the high bounce and pace there, the all-rounder is practising the pull and the hook shots.

“Right now I am doing my off season training at the Kiran More academy. Considering the wickets in South Africa will offer more bounce and pace, I am practicing the pool and hook shots with wet tennis balls. I normally prefer heavy bats but my coach Jasbir Singh suggested I reduce the weight a little because of my high backlift.”

On Rahul Dravid:

Krunal will be under the supervision of legendary batsman Rahul Dravid who is the coach of the India A team. Dravid is also Krunal’s idol and the Baroda boy seemed excited than ever.

He (Dravid) is one my favourite cricketer. Have heard a lot about him from Bhajji pa (Harbhajan Singh) in the Mumbai Indians dressing room. I am really excited to meet him for the first time.”

On Hardik Pandya:

Krunal is elated with his younger brother Hardik’s success and said that they are more like friends. “We often have a friendly banter amongst us. We mix more like friends. I am extremely happy about my brother’s success.”

On the 2019 ICC World Cup:

Talking about the 2019 World Cup, Krunal added “It is a long way to go. Yes, it would be a great moment for the family if both of us can make it to the squad. But we really have to work hard and keep performing for that to happen,”