Lucky that I have got this break: Hardik Pandya

Hard-hitting Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya will not be in action in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. He was named in the initial 16-man squad for the series. However, the selectors dropped his name when they trimmed the squad to 15 and noted that he was rested. Now, as per the recent quotes in Times of India, Hardik Pandya has revealed that he had asked for this break.

He noted that he needed some time to get back to his prime fitness. He has his eyes set on the upcoming India’s tour of South Africa. Pandya admitted that he hopes to give his best there and will be utilizing his free time to improve on fitness now. A very optimistic Pandya feels that he could well be the key for the Indian team in the testing conditions in South Africa. India does not boast of a very happy record in the South African conditions.

“To be honest, I asked for it. My body wasn’t up to it, I was getting niggles because of the amount of cricket that I have played. I want to play cricket when I am totally up for it, when I can give my 100 percent. I am lucky that I have got this break. I will train in the gym during this break and improve my fitness. I won’t lie, I am really excited for South Africa series. I would like to use this break to improve my fitness for the series,” quoted Hardik Pandya.

“Yes, I am really excited. People are talking about it….It’s a much hyped series. I like challenges in life, they keep me going….. As you said I am the missing link in the team, who knows I might be the difference there. I am sure we are going to play very well,” he added.

Turning point in career

Reflecting back in time, Hardik Pandya pointed out that his career has seen an upward growth ever since he got his break for the Mumbai Indians team in the IPL. Pandya remarked that there has been no looking back ever since that time. He had an off show for a little while but it only helped him to develop as a better cricketer in the due course of time.

“My life changed when I got a chance to play for MI (Mumbai Indians) and then I never looked back. I had a small failure and that’s why I learned to be even more professional. You need to understand that some things are bad. That’s how you improve in life,” Pandya conceded.