IND vs SL 2017: 'To be Honest, I Asked for the Break' - Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya has been a regular member of the Indian team in the recent times and had produced some essential performances at crucial stages for the side.

Pandya, who was initially included in the 16-man squad for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka got rested, and the squad has now been reduced to 15 men. Pandya was included for the first two Test matches of the three-match series beginning 16^th November at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Pandya was given the nod for some rest due to the heavy workload that the Indian team had gone through and seemed like the congested schedule has started to take a toll on the fast bowling all-rounder. Pandya in an interview revealed that he had asked for this rest, as he was not felling 100 percent fit.

“To be honest, I asked for it. My body wasn’t up to it. I was getting niggles because of the amount of cricket that I have played. I want to play cricket when I am totally up for it when I can give my 100 percent,

Pandya will improve his strength and conditioning in the coming days at the NCA,

“I am lucky that I have got this break. I will train in the gym during this break and improve my fitness. I am really excited for South Africa series. I would like to use this break to improve my fitness,”

He is being touted as one of the players who could make a difference for the Indian team in South Africa, and he is excited about the upcoming challenge,

“Yes, I am really excited. People are talking about it. It’s a much-hyped series. I like challenges in life; they keep me going. Who knows I might be the difference there. I am sure we are going to play very well,”

Pandya has been India’s finest search for a genuine all-rounder off-late. His bowling has been important for India in the middle order, as he combines well with the Indian spinners in tandem.

Cricket commentators and pundits have been in all praises for the young all-rounder. His batting skills have given depth to the Indian batting lineup.

Also Read: (IND vs SL 2018: Another Record Awaits Ravichandran Ashwin)

(Hardik Pandya Reveals Sachin Tendulkar’s Role In His Career)