The third ODI between India and New Zealand at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Sunday saw Indian captain MS Dhoni promote himself to number four. He joined his deputy Virat Kohli in the middle, and added 151 runs for the third wicket as India chased down 286.
With both averaging over 50 and having strike rates of over 90 in one-day internationals, Dhoni and Kohli are two of the greatest modern-day batsmen in the format. They were at their best in Mohali as Kohli went on to score the 26th ODI century of his career, while Dhoni scored 80.
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, speaking before the fourth ODI, mentioned that the captain and vice-captain were inspiring other members of the Indian team with their performances.
“There’s a lot to learn when both (Kohli and Dhoni) of them bat. Their batting, running between wickets inspire us. It’s at another level. It’s fun to watch them bat together,” said Pandya.
The Baroda all-rounder also added that he is ready to bat at any position the team wants him to. With Dhoni pushing himself up the order, Pandya could be used as the new finisher in the Indian limited overs team.
“It shows positive intent. I enjoyed his (Dhoni) batting. As a batsman, whatever number I bat at, we should play according to the situation. It’s a job for everyone. It gives us confidence for someone who bats lower down the order. It’s pretty good. I’m pretty ready for everything, whatever overs I get,” said Pandya.
It has been noticed that Pandya’s pace has improved during the ODI series against New Zealand. After a disappointing IPL season, the 23-year-old seems to have worked on his fitness which has led to his increased speeds.
“I was putting in the same effort but I’ve worked a bit more on my fitness. I’m stronger now,” he said.
Pandya ended with bowling figures of 3/31 in the first ODI of the series at Dharamsala, which saw him win the Man of the Match award in his debut ODI. Following that, he had a chance to win his team the game with the bat in the second ODI.
Everything seemed lost when the Men in Blue were reduced to 183/8, while chasing 243. But Pandya, along with Umesh Yadav, stitched together a 49-run partnership that got India close to a memorable win.
Pandya fell for 36, with India needing just 11 runs after he played a rash shot off the bowling of Trent Boult in the penultimate over of the match.
“Well I’ve played that shot before, it was just not my day. I will try not repeat that and learn from mistakes and experience certainly plays a key role,” he said.
India lead the five-match ODI series 2-1, with the fourth match scheduled for the JSCA International Stadium, Ranchi on Wednesday.