Hardik Pandya: I want to be Jacques Kallis of Team India

New Delhi: Ahead of the ICC World T20, new all-round sensation in the Indian cricket team Hardik Pandya said that he wants to be like legendary South African cricketer Jacques Kallis.

Pandya has impressed many with his all-round abilities since he has made his international debut against Australia in Jan 26, 2016.

"Big things start with the dream only. This was the dream. Yes, it's fulfilling. I want to be like Jacques Kallis. What he has done for Proteas in batting and bowling. I want to do the same thing for India," Pandya said during Indian team's 'Open Media Session', here today.

The 23-year-old Gujarat cricketer said that playing for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League has been the turning point in his career.

"IPL has changed my life big time. Same time last year, I had posted a photo saying that I was sold to Mumbai Indians for Rs 10 lakh. This year on same day, I won the Asia Cup. Just imagine playing for the national team within a year and winning the Asia Cup. The journey has been quite amazing."

Pandya is also thankful towards India's limited-overs skipper MS Dhoni for showing faith in his abilities.

"When you see your captain promoting yourself ahead of big names is really a good thing. It helps a lot. I quite like the faith he is showing. I want to contribute as many times as I can. I don't take pressure (on myself)," said the new Poster Boy of Indian cricket.

(With PTI inputs)