“India can pick two more international teams and win any competition in the world” – Hardik Pandya


“India can pick two more international teams and win any competition in the world” – Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya

Fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya has stated that the current Indian side can have two more international teams and still win any competition in the world. His statement came ahead of the third One Day International (ODI) against Sri Lanka where the ‘Men in Blue’ made as many as six changes in their playing XI, including five debutants. 

The Indian team has shown vast depth in terms of their domination in world cricket in the past few years. This started with this year’s historic Test series win against Australia where they lacked the services of most of their key players. Currently, India is playing a six-match limited-overs in SL with a full 23-member squad already practising in England for five Test matches.

“Our roles are very clear, even in the main team. With the kind of talent, the Indian team possess right now, I think we can pick two more teams and win any competition in the world,” Hardik Pandya said while speaking to Sony Sports Network. 

“The more I play, the more I’ll get better” – Pandya

Hardik Pandya bowling
Hardik Pandya didn’t have a great time during the first phase of this year’s IPL

Coming to Hardik Pandya’s individual performance in this series, he hasn’t been able to impress much with both bat and ball. The Baroda cricketer managed to score just 19 runs in two innings and failed to step up when his side needed him the most. Moreover, he claimed only two wickets at a below-par average of almost 50. The junior Pandya had earlier failed for Mumbai Indians (MI) in the initial phase of IPL 2021 as well.

However, the 27-year-old backed himself to perform well in the upcoming matches. Pandya assured that he’s fully fit at the moment and will get better with time.

“I understand that in life you have to keep growing. As a cricketer and a person, you need to keep growing. My process is just growing as a human being. You tend to make mistakes, you fail, but I like to celebrate my failures. I like to celebrate my bad days, it is a part of the sport and it teaches you a lot of things. I like to remember it. I am hundred per cent (fit), it’s just about game time. The more I play, the more I’ll get better,” he added.

Also Read | India vs Sri Lanka player rating: Chahar brothers dominate but Pandya gets 4

Also Read | WATCH: IND vs SL – Shikhar Dhawan’s trademark ‘thigh-five’ celebration after winning the first toss as captain