Hardik Pandya had a very good ODI series against New Zealand and has been rewarded for his performances with a maiden Test call up for the Test series against England. He offers an insight to a variety of questions.

Q) Tell us about the recently concluded India vs New Zealand ODI series. You had 2 MI players – Rohit & Bumrah in your camp and 3 MI players in the opposition camp. How was your overall experience?

A) The atmosphere and comradery was good. The Kiwis are good guys. We used to go out and spend time in each other’s company a lot. We knew each other well because of the IPL.

Q) Let’s talk about your selection in the Indian Test Squad. It’s a big series vs England and how are you preparing for this challenge?

A) It’s a really big series and I am looking forward to it. I need to be fit. I am playing Ranji Trophy. I need to work hard. It’s a critical part of my career.

Q) Everyone is impressed with your bowling performance, but your ability with the bat is also a reason why you have been selected in the Test Squad. So tell us how playing alongside MSD & Virat Kohli helped you improve as a batsman. 

A) During the ODI series against New Zealand, I had 2 opportunities to finish the game. I learnt a lot from both of them. They showed a lot of confidence and I was quite happy with the way I played. The experience was amazing. They were there to help me and I was there to learn.

Q) 2016 has been a mixed year for you so far. IPL 2016 didn’t go as per plan but now you are in the middle of a fantastic run with Team India. What were your key learnings from 2016 IPL season?

A) It was a roller coaster ride for me. I enjoyed great success at the start of my career. Then I suffered a setback. The India ‘A’ series was amazing. I worked hard and it helped me a lot. I have work with Rahul Sanghvi during IPL and it helped me improve my mental strength. I have also been working with Paras Mhambrey since 2 and a half year now and even he helped me a lot in my bowling. So these two people have played a key role in improving my game.