On Sunday Virat Kohli applauded the performance of Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder has been effective in both departments and Kohli thinks in the next few months Pandya can be the all-rounder for the Indian National Cricket team across formats.
Virat Kohli on Hardik Pandya
Pandya has been the go-to all-rounder for Virat Kohli especially in limited-overs for the last few years. Since his comeback from injury, he has been on fire. The all-rounder bowled a couple of overs in the opening game but went on to complete his full quota in the second T20I which India won by seven wickets. While speaking at the post-match presentation on Sunday captain Kohli acknowledged the fact and said, “Credit to Hardik that he’s bowling at least 3 overs for us in every game. And the next six to eight months period he’s promised he’s going to commit everything to be the all-rounder the team needs in all three formats. He plays for the team at all times and these kinds of players are priceless.”
Hardik Pandya ahead of the series had already confirmed that he would be bowling against England in the series. “It’s been almost one and a half months since I have been preparing in this format — it’s going to be important with the World T20 coming up. You will see me bowling in this series.” Pandya was out of action for some time due to injury.
India win the second ODI
The 5-match series against England is currently leveled at 1-1. Ishan Kishan on his debut in the second T20I played an impressive knock to help India chase the target of 165. It was his match-winning performance as an opener and later Kohli’s effort along with Rishabh Pant’s contribution that won the match for India. “Quite a good game for us. I think we ticked all the boxes we wanted to. Especially in the first innings with the ball. To give away only 34 in the last five, very smart bowling. Especially, Washy, he had only one left-hander to bowl to and he used the big boundary to the right-handers better,” Kohli said.
