(UTV | INDIA) – Hardik Pandya is planning one and will be “relishing” his chance even if India need 15 runs instead of the seven they scored in the final to win their Asia Cup opener against Pakistan.
Pandya had a dream game, first scalping 3 wickets for 25 in four overs and then finished the match with a six off Mohammed Nawaz, after scoring an invaluable unbeaten 33 runs off 17 balls.
India beat Pakistan by five wickets on Sunday to return to the top of their group, which also includes Hong Kong.
“In a chase like this, you always plan more-by-more. I always know that there is a young bowler (Naseem or Shahnawaz Dahani) and also a left-arm spinner (Nawaz),” said Pandya after the match.
“We only needed 7 off the last over but even though we needed 15, I’ve fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in 20 overs. I’m trying to keep things simple,” said India No. 1 all-rounder.
As far as bowling is concerned, Pandya knows that he has to mix up the short balls and force the batters to make mistakes.
“In bowling, it’s important to assess the situation and use your weapons. For me, bowling short and long hard has been my advantage. It’s about using them well and asking the right questions so the batters make mistakes,” he said. .
India will play Hong Kong on Wednesday.
