6 players who make India's bench incredibly strong

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya is a rare breed in Indian cricket. He came at a time when Indian cricket was in search of a seam-bowling all-rounder, and immediately drew comparisons with the legendary Kapil Dev for his skills as an all-rounder.

Pandya made his Test debut against Sri Lanka and scored a Test century in his third match where he famously hit Sri Lankan spinner Malinda Pushpakumara for 26 in an over.

Pandya continued his excellent form as he scored a belligerent 93 against a quality South African attack on a spicy Cape Town wicket. However, his performances started going downhill after that, and he failed to convert his starts in the remaining matches.

A lot was expected from him in England, but after failing to make a sizable contribution in the first two matches he played a starring role in the third Test at Nottingham where he picked up his first ever five-for followed by a fifty in the second innings.

Pandya is an attacking batsman who can make a mockery of the spinners. He is also an electrifying fielder who can bring the all-important balance to the side. If he keeps working on his game, he can be a vital cog in India's Test side.