Working with Rahul Dravid has helped Hardik Pandya's selection, reveals MSK Prasad

Hardik Pandya's inclusion in the ODI series against New Zealand came as a surprise to many as when the all-rounder travelled with India A to Australia in September, he returned with just 5 wickets and 47 runs in 7 matches. But, 23-year old made an immediate impact with figures of 3/31 on his ODI debut at Dharamsala and then almost won the second ODI for India with a knock of 36 runs falling just 6 runs short of the target.

According to selection committee head MSK Prasad, Pandya's change is attitude has helped him in earning his first call-up for the Indian Test side for the upcoming series against England.

"If you look at Hardik Pandya, his pace has increased. His overall personality has mellowed down. He did extremely well in the ODI series and also during the A tour Down Under," Prasad told Zee Media Bureau on Wednesday.

“We all know he is a bit hyper. But he has worked hard under Rahul Dravid and under chief coach Anil Kumble."

Also Read:India's squad for first two Tests against England

Prasad, who succeeded Sandeep Patil as the chief selector last month, said that Pandya's all-round abilities are the main reason behind his selection. 

"We all have been trying to find an all-rounder after Kapil Dev. In case we play three spinners, he can be the second seamer and also can bat," he reasoned.

The selection chief also felt that currently, Pandya is a better bowler than all-rounder Stuart Binny.

"Hardik is a better bowler than Stuart. Stuart's name was also considered but we felt on current form, Hardik is better," Prasad said.