India vs Ireland – Pandya and Dhoni comparison: It is early days for Hardik Pandya as captain, but the all-rounder has already drawn comparisons with MS Dhoni. His on-field traits are quite similar. After receiving the India vs Ireland T20I series trophy on Tuesday, he handed it over to his team mates before posing for the winning pictures. Follow India tour of Ireland live updates on Insidesport.IN
Pandya allowed other youngsters to take centrestage in the winning picture by remaining at the side. Such moments remind one of Dhoni the captain.
India vs Ireland: Hardik Pandya the captain reminds one about MS Dhoni and his captaincy flavour
The comparison does not end there. Pandya, like Dhoni, does not lose his cool easily. He lends a calm atmosphere on the field even during crunch situations. He is seen passing important tips to bowlers, who have responded to his demands.
Pandya, who made his debut under Dhoni, also loves to back his players. After the first T20I, Pandya backed youngster Umran Malik, who was hit for 14 runs in one over.
Pandya stands for his players: In fact, he showed further confidence when the pacer was handed the final over when Ireland needed 17 runs to win the second T20I on Tuesday. After the game, he expressed delight with the way how Malik and Deepak Hooda delivered in the second T20I. Standing by players was a number one trait of Dhoni and Pandya can be bracketed in the same category as well.
India vs Ireland: Hardik Pandya the captain reminds one about MS Dhoni and his captaincy flavour
Interestingly, Pandya was only given the armband after his impressive showing as captain in the Indian Premier League. He helped debutants Gujarat Titans clinch the title in style. Pandya delivered from the front and also got the best out of players like David Miller, Mohammad Shami among others.
From his early days as captain, one can gauge how Pandya is quickly growing into the role. Pandya is also quite clear with his thought as well. He wants to be himself though he has learnt a lot from Kohli and Dhoni. Even his words exude confidence.
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