Hardik Pandya, who made his ODI debut for India in the recently concluded New Zealand series which India won 3-2, has been picked for the first time in the Test squad.
On October 11, Pandya celebrated his 23rd birthday. Five days later, he made his ODI debut in Dharamsala, in the first ODI of the series against New Zealand. His performance impressed not just his fans but also the selectors who gave him another chance to shine.
And on November 2, BCCI announced the Indian squad or the first two cricket Tests against England starting November 9 in Rajkot.
During the announcement, middle-order batsman Rohit Sharma was sidelined due to an injury while all-rounder Hardik Pandya emerged as the lone new face.
On getting the maiden Test call, Pandya said that it is the biggest moment of his cricketing life.
"Honestly, being called for the Tests is more pleasing and happier moment," Pandya said , adding "I have been in the scheme of things as far as ODIs are concerned for a while, but to get a call for Test cricket is the main thing. It tests your temperament, fitness, work ethics, mental strength."
The young cricketer from Gujarat further said that he wasn’t expecting the call so soon.
"It came as a big surprise. There is no cricketer, at any level, who doesn't dream of representing India in the whites. I'm no different. I have immense respect for all the formats that I've played in, but this so special. Wasn't really expecting this," Mumbai Indians cricketer said.
India set to play 5 test series against the visitors England.
Apart from Rajkot, the other Tests are slated to be held in Vishakapatnam (Nov 17-21), Mohali (Nov 26-30), Mumbai (Dec 8-12) and Chennai (Dec 16-20).
