Hardik Pandya has been tipped as India’s next all-rounder and up until now his performances have been brilliant on the international stage.
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With bat, ball or in the field, Pandya’s exuberance and commitment make him a likeable character. He just seems like someone who puts in a 100% while doing anything on the cricket field, characteristics that Kohli just absolutely loves.
His inclusion in India’s overseas Test squad did raise a few eyebrows, as his batting technique doesn’t really inspire a lot of confidence in overseas conditions. Also, his bowling doesn’t seem all that threatening, but he is there in an there about, asking questions off the batsman at all stages.
While you can debate about his caliber as India’s next seam bowling all rounder, you can not, for even one bit, question his caliber as a fielder, because he is one of the finest in the world at this stage. And that was on display today, when he effected Amla’s run-out against the run of play to put India right back into the scheme of things.
Pandya dropped the ball short, and Amla rocked back to defend it towards the leg side and took off for a run. Pandya was quick to the ball, collected it, turned and knocked down the stumps in emphatic fashion.
The Indians started celebrating and the replay suggested that Amla was well short of his ground.
Check out the video:
India have come right back into the game, having picked up the wicket of Amla, QDK and Philander in quick succession.
Virat Kohli would be hoping to pick up at least another one before close of play tonight, so that India can finish the day on a high.
