Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has showered praise on Hardik Pandya, stating the all-rounder has learned to take responsibility. Pandya played a mature knock of 87 runs against Pakistan in a high-octane clash of the Asia Cup at Pallekele on Saturday.
In fact, Pandya joined forces with Ishan Kishan with India in a quagmire at 66-4. However, the duo was able to rescue the team from a tricky situation as they added a fine partnership of 138 runs off just 142 balls. Kishan also scored a gutsy knock of 82 runs under pressure and proved his mettle in the middle order.
Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya holds the key for India with both bat and ball. He got off to a sedate start against Pakistan but he was able to change gears in the second half of the innings. Pandya was bamboozled by a slower delivery from Shaheen Shah Afridi and missed out on the opportunity to complete his maiden ODI century.
“This change has come since Hardik Pandya became the Gujarat Titans’ captain. He has learned to take responsibility. He has played at No. 3 and No. 4 as well and the biggest thing is that Hardik has learned how to mold himself according to the situation,” said Kaif on Star Sports.
Pandya scored seven fours and one six in his fine knock as he batted at the top of his game. Kaif added that Pandya showed maturity in his game and played according to the match situation.
“When he comes at No. 5 or No. 6, he plays the big shots. When he comes at No. 3 or No. 4, he knows he has to build a partnership, play steadily, and take his time. He showed that by doing it today (Saturday) because the situation was extremely grim when Hardik Pandya came to bat,” Kaif added.
Pandya has a great record against Pakistan, scoring 209 runs in five matches at a fine average of 69.66. Kaif showered praise on Pandya for absorbing the pressure.
“India was under a lot of pressure. He played patiently and hit proper cricketing shots. He hit a six later but he took very few risks at the start. He knows how to play spin, plays the pull, drive, and he showed the cut shot also today. The ball went rapidly to the fence, the fielder couldn’t even move. So he has learned to play every shot. He even played the scoop in this match,” said Kaif.
India will next face Nepal at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele on Monday.
