TIL Desk Sports/ Former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock feels Virat Kohli sees a bit of himself in Hardik Pandya and predicted a long run for the all-rounder in the Indian team.
“I clearly get the impression that Virat Kohli loves Hardik Pandya’s attitude. It’s very similar to the way Kohli plays his cricket. And because he loves that attitude there is a good chance that Pandya will get a long run in the side, to settle himself and cement his spot in the team,” Pollock said.
South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in Tests added, “That’s the nature of cricket. “If the captain likes the way a player goes about his business then that player will get an extra run (of opportunities).” Pandya was the fulcrum of India’s attack in the 73-run victory over South Africa in the fifth ODI at Port Elizabeth. His performance paved the way for their maiden series victory in the country.
“I liked Pandya’s attitude and approach in the Cape Town Test; the way he played that knock, and he is learning. He will be ultra positive in Indian conditions where he can take on the spinners. Lot of people have got potential, but to take that to the next level is always the key.