India’s swashbuckling all-rounder Hardik Pandya made his Test debut in the first Test of the ongoing 3-match series between Sri Lanka and India. It wasn’t the most spectacular debut, but Pandya impressed one and all with his hitting skills lower down the order and never-say-die attitude with the ball.
Coming in to bat at number 6, Pandya scored a quick fire fifty and helped India reach the 600-run mark without wasting too much time. Pandya’s cameo allowed Kohli to have a 15-over go at the Lankans and attack with more close-in fielders.
India’s number 3 Cheteshwar Pujara interviewed Hardik Pandya for bcci.tv and it was fun to see Pandya and Pujara getting candid with each other. During the interview, Pujara asked Pandya about his preparations for his first Test and he got a typical Pandya reply.
“Even when I was batting, it felt like batting in one-dayers. The scenario was perfect for me. As an international cricketer, you need to be smart as in terms of preparation. While switching formats, there is a switch in mindset but skill sets generally don’t change,” Pandya said.
Pujara also asked Pandya about hitting six sixes an over and he got a very interesting reply from Pandya.
“I don’t think about hitting six sixes in an over. I have hit three sixes off three balls but never went for the fourth one as the situation never demanded. If some day, we have a situation where I can go after all six balls, I might go for it,” said Pandya.
You can watch the full interview here
