Sri Lanka vs India: Virat Kohli and co backed me to do well, says Hardik Pandya

Pallekele: Hardik Pandya has been known for his exploits, both with bat and ball in the shorter format of the game, but made a point to selectors with an impressive performance in Team India’s 3-0 series whitewash against Sri Lanka.

The swashbuckling right-hander was adjudged the man of the match in the final Test for a quick fire 108 of 96 deliveries, helping India post a monstrous 487 in the first innings. The Baroda all-rounder credited the team for backing him to do well and wants to work harder to cement his place in the Test format.

"I am glad that I got my first hundred here, I didn't have a first-class hundred before coming here. The situation was pretty good for me when I went in and I knew that I could back my instincts. I have been bowling as well and Test cricket is not an easy place to come and take a fifer. I have to keep working harder. I am pretty alright to bat wherever the teams wants me to. This team is pretty amazing. Everyone backs me to do well."

Pandya ended the series on a satisfactory note, scalping 4 wickets along with scoring 178 runs. The dashing all-rounder will be keen on replicating the same form in the upcoming five-match ODI series that begins on 20^th August.