After India’s 66-run defeat in the first ODI against Australia at SCG, all-rounder Hardik Pandya said he will bowl only when the time is right, urging the team to groom other players with multiple skill-sets.
In the aftermath of the game, India skipper Virat Kohli said Pandya, who is remodelling his action following a back surgery, is not fit enough to bowl which is affecting the balance of the side.
"I am working on my bowling. I am going to come in when the time is right," Pandya, who slammed 90 off 76 balls in the ODI series opener, said at the post-match press conference.
"I want to be at 100 per cent of my bowling capacity. I want to bowl at speeds that are required at the international level," he added.
With another 10 months to go for the ICC T20 World Cup, Pandya said he wants to start bowling bearing in mind the long-term goals and big events.
"We are thinking about long term. We are thinking about the T20 World Cup and other important tournaments where my bowling will be of even more importance," he said.
"When you've 375 to chase, everyone has to play with intent. Nothing else one can do. You cannot be planning too much."
Pandya feels the team should also look at all-round options considering that a sixth bowling option is a must for the balance of an ODI team.
"I think, maybe, we will have to find someone who has already played India and groom them and find a way to make them play," he said.
"It is always going to be difficult when you go with five bowlers, because then if somebody is having an off day, you won't have someone to fulfill (that role)," he said about a collective flop-show by the Indian bowling.
".....more than injury, it is about the sixth bowler's role. If someone is having a bad day, so the other guys gets more cushion," he said.
Asked about options available, Hardik quipped the selectors can try his elder brother Krunal, who is a spin bowling all-rounder.
"may be you can name it who all are there maybe we should look in the Pandya family only," he stated.
(With PTI inputs)
