The fiery Indian batter, Suryakumar Yadav was the crucial cog for India in the third T20I of the five-match series against West Indies as he played a knock of 76 runs to help India chase down 165 runs with seven wickets in hand and one over to spare. After the win, Hardik Pandya addressed a press conference and he talked about the talent of Suryakumar and how the side gets more balanced when he bowls his full quota of four overs.

As per the quotes in India Today, Hardik said, “Surya is someone who is an exceptional player, when he starts playing some shots, you are just in awe. A lot of credit goes to him, he has worked hard. He is getting his due late in his life but God is kind to him and he is getting the maximum.”

In the match, Hardik Pandya finished the game with a spell of 1-19 in four overs, and this helped the visitors restrict West Indies to 164/5 in 20 overs.

ALSO READ: Krishnamachari Srikkanth Feels Dinesh Karthik Isn’t A Finisher

Talking about his bowling, Hardik Pandya said, “I have mentioned it earlier multiple times, that this was the reason that I felt I should take some time off so that my bowling comes in because I have realized that when I bowl, it gives a lot of balance to the side and confidence to the captain. Yes, I used to bowl before, I used to be a filler if someone is not bowling. I can proudly say that now I can bowl four overs as the third or fourth seamer. I can contribute as equally as I do with the bat.”

He further added, “I am grateful, I have always thought that hard work is the key to you making a comeback. No matter the hardships, you always rise through and you get what you deserve if you do the hard work. The last World Cup was different, this World Cup will be different. I have always maintained balance in my life, if I do well, I will smile and the same reaction would be there even if I do not do well.”

ALSO READ: Aiden Markram gives credit to the IPL for his T20I success

Talking about being the vice-captain of India’s T20I side for the series against West Indies, Hardik Pandya feels privileged to be given that role. He also credited coach Rahul Dravid as the team management has been providing a positive environment to the players.