Jadeja’s adaptability, Pandya’s composure fuel Kartik’s ambitions

Young spinner Kartik Yadav may have played only three Ranji Trophy matches so far, but he is already looking to emulate Ravindra Jadeja’s adaptability and Hardik Pandya’s composure under pressure to become an all-format cricketer.

The 19-year-old from Uttar Pradesh claimed a five-wicket haul on his Ranji Trophy debut against Tamil Nadu last year. Though he went wicketless in the matches that followed, Yadav said the experience of playing at the senior level proved to be an important learning curve.

“Debuting at this age is a dream for everyone. You are debuting at such a young age, contributing to the team and doing well. Taking a five-wicket haul was a great experience,” Yadav, who is currently representing Kashi Rudras in the UP T20 League, said. “As far as learning is concerned, learning will always be there. I went to that level for the first time, so I faced different conditions, different players and tough situations.”

The left-arm spinner from Prayagraj, who sees himself as an all-rounder, said he draws inspiration from Jadeja and Pandya to become an all-format player.

“I have always seen myself as an all-rounder. From the beginning, I have looked up to Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya,” he said.

“The key things that I have observed in Hardik Pandya are his mindset, self-confidence and the way he handles pressure. No matter how intense the match is, he stays cool and calm. His belief that ‘I am the best’ also impresses me a lot.”