Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya says he wants to emulate legendary South African Jacques Kallis.
“Big things start with the dream only. This was the dream. Yes, it’s fulfilling. I want to be like Jacques Kallis. What he has done for Proteas in batting and bowling. I want to do the same thing for India,” Pandya said during Indian team’s ’Open Media Session’, on Tuesday.
Pandya revealed that he was not given instructions and that helped him ‘read’ situations better.
“The best part is I’m not told anything. I’ve not given been any instruction. That’s something good for me. I can now read situations as I have got used to international pressure.”
He also said that playing for Mumbai Indians in the IPL was the turning point in his career.
“IPL has changed my life big time. Same time last year, I had posted a photo saying that I was sold to Mumbai Indians for Rs. 10 lakh. This year on same day, I won the Asia Cup. Just imagine playing for the national team within a year and winning the Asia Cup. The journey has been quite amazing.”
He was also thankful to skipper M.S. Dhoni for showing faith in his abilities.
“When you see your captain promoting yourself ahead of big names is really a good thing. It helps a lot. I quite like the faith he is showing. I want to contribute as many times as I can. I don’t take pressure [on myself],” he said.
