There is a lot to learn from Dhoni and Virat: Hardik Pandya

24-year old Hardik Pandya shot to fame following some impressive performances with the bat and ball with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL. However, when it came to playing international cricket, the Baroda all-rounder was taught a harsh lesson as he was dropped from the Indian team soon after the performances he put up in the World T20.

However, after having impressed with the India ‘A’ side, Hardik Pandya has seemingly been given a new lease of life. His impressive bowling in the first ODI at Dharamsala saw many doubters and haters eat their words rather forcefully. At the moment, Pandya has revealed that he is learning from the best  in the form of skipper MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.

“There’s a lot to learn when both (Kohli and Dhoni) of them bat. Their batting, running between wickets inspire us. It’s at another level. It’s fun to watch them bat together,” Pandya paid glowing tributes to his seniors on the eve of their fourth ODI against New Zealand in Ranchi.

The 24-year old also added that the positive intent shown by MS Dhoni was something that impressed him. “It shows positive intent. I enjoyed his (Dhoni) batting. As a batsman, whatever number I bat at, we should play according to the situation. It’s a job for everyone. It gives us confidence for someone who bats lower down the order. It’s pretty good.”

He also revealed that he was ready for everything international cricket threw at him. “I’m pretty ready for everything, whatever overs I get. I was putting the same effort but I’ve worked a bit more on my fitness. I’m stronger now.

“Well I’ve played that shot before, it was just not my day. I will try not repeat that and learn from mistakes and experience certainly plays a key role,” he added.

Asked whether the team was affected by over dependency on Kohli, he said: “When Virat is in full flow, it boosts the confidence. He is a high impact player, so obviously it creates pressure when he gets out cheaply and the team has to start building (the innings) again. Generally, he scores for the team. But as a cricketer, we are ready for any situation.”

Kedar Jadhav, who has impressed quite a bit in recent times said, “It helps a lot, coming as the sixth bowler he’s certainly making a difference. Winning is important but we are taking match by match and not thinking too far ahead on the result of the series.”

“New Zealand are a dangerous side in limited overs. We will have to adjust according to the situation.”