India vs New Zealand 2019: Sunil Gavaskar Lauds Hardik Pandya's Calculated Assault

Veteran India captain, Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Hardik Pandya’s calculated assault during the Wellington ODI. The final match of the series which India won by 35 runs saw the all-rounder delivering with both bat and ball. While he smashed a quickfire 22-ball 45, Hardik took two wickets in the second innings itself. Meanwhile, India had clinched the five-match ODI series 4-1.

Pandya’s hitting was magnificent to watch – Gavaskar

Hardik Pandya had an outing to remember in Wellington. Since he had been on the sidelines for the majority of January 2018 because of his off-field controversy; delivering for the team when it required the most must be satisfying. However, he didn’t disappoint. India, early on Sunday, was reeling at 18 for four at one stage. Ambati Rayudu then combined with Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav to save India’s day.

Pandya, who had come after Jadhav’s dismissal began the onslaught from the word go. He first smashed spinner, Todd Astle for a hat-trick of sixes before launching two more into the crowds. Courtesy his fiery innings, Pandya had reached 45 off 21 balls before falling to James Neesham. By the time he got out, Hardik had done the damage.

Meanwhile, Sunil Gavaskar said there was no rush about Pandya’s innings. The risk he took was calculated and had he stayed for a few more balls; he would have scored a lot more.

“There was no desperate hitting today at all. It was a calculated assault. It was magnificent to watch, it was delightful to watch. He [Hardik], with those hits, apart from the runs that have been added also lifts the mood in the dressing room. He has got those 40-50 extra runs,” he said.

Pandya can bat up the order – Gavaskar

When asked the former skipper about Hardik batting up the order, he said,

“Yes, this is exactly what the Indian team wants from him. That is the reason, he was held back and Vijay Shankar and Kedar Jadhav were sent ahead. But sometimes, why not give him a few more overs?”

“Instead of the last 10 overs, if he gets to bat may 15 overs, those extra five overs could mean another 25 or even 45 runs.”

Meanwhile, India will now face New Zealand in the first T20I in Wellington on Wednesday (February 3rd).