Sourav Ganguly asks Hardik Pandya to look upto Kallis as a role model

For years, India had struggled to find a proper all-rounder, all they got was ‘bits and pieces’. That’s when Hardik Pandya entered into the scene and achieved tremendous success in a short span. From being considered as a potential all-rounder to showcasing his versatility on the international stage in less than 2 years from his debut. He has made his presence felt in the team whether it has come to scoring runs at crucial junctures or taking important wickets in key circumstances. His fielding has also managed to keep the opposition batsmen on their toes.

Sourav Ganguly speaks on Hardik Pandya

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has showered praises on the all-rounder for his recent exploits. After scoring quickfire innings of 83 runs from 66 balls to rescue India from the early collapse, Hardik also went on to take the important wickets of Steve Smith and Travis Head as Team India won the first ODI to lead the series 1-0.

“He’s (Pandya) getting better and that’s the best part of it. You can see the confidence, because of the performance with the bat, in his bowling. If you do well in one aspect of the game you automatically get better in the other aspect,” said Ganguly.

He also emphasized that the job of an all-rounder is not easy and that Pandya must consider Jacques Kallis as his role model.

“He’s got to think big because the job of an all-rounder is not easy. He’s fit, he works hard and for him the role model should be Jacques Kallis. I’m not comparing him with Kallis but he should start looking at putting in performances over a period of 10 years in all formats because he’s got ability.” Ganguly was quoted as saying to India Today.

The second ODI of the series is slated to be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on September 21.