Indian legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar believes Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli should have shared the Man of the Match award in Trent Bridge. Indian skipper scored a fine 97 in the first essay while he backed it with another 103 in the second dig.
On the other hand, Hardik Pandya was superb with the ball in the first innings. The Indian all-rounder scalped his first-ever five-for in the red ball version. He got the ball to move away and landed the balls in the right areas to trouble the England batsmen.
Hardik Pandya played a key role with the ball in the first innings.
Thus, India was able to fold up England for a paltry 161 in the first innings. Furthermore, Hardik Pandya contributed the bat as well scoring a run-a-ball 52 in the second innings. Thus, it was an all-around performance from Pandya.
While interacting with the fans in a live Question-Answer session on his 100 MB app, Sachin Tendulkar said Hardik Pandya played an imperative role in the first innings.
“I would have made them share the award. Both players played important roles in India’s victory. Both of Virat Kohli’s innings was very significant. The first innings helped give India a strong foundation and the century in the second innings ensured that India set an improbable target. At the same time, I feel that Hardik also played an important role, especially in the first innings,” Tendulkar said.
The Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar said Hardik Pandya played a crucial role as he got the pivotal wickets of players like Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow. Moreover, he scored a quickfire fifty in the second innings.
“His five wickets were critical. Players like Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow are the in-form batsman, and to dismiss them early was vital. He even scored a quick-fire fifty in the second innings to take the target beyond 500. Eventually, it comes down to a matter of opinion,” Tendulkar added.
There is no denying the fact both Hardik Pandya and Virat Kohli played indispensable parts in India’s 203 runs win at Trent Bridge. Kohli has been a proven player. Consequently, giving the Man of the Match award to Hardik Pandya could have further boosted his confidence.