Warming the bench can get to your head: Manish Pandey

INDIA might have lost the second T20 game against South Africa yesterday at Centurion, but Manish Pandey's innings (79 not out off 48 balls) was the biggest positive for the tourists. 

Ever since Pandey made his debut in limited overs cricket back in July 2015, the Karnataka batsman has been in and out of the Indian team, much to his frustration. 

To be fair, Pandey often infuriated his fans and the selectors with his reckless shot-making. That said, he was also given a raw deal on some occasions. 

Speaking to PTI after his blazing knock in Pretoria, the 28-year-old explained how playing the waiting game and warming the bench added to his frustration.

"Honestly, it's a little tough (waiting for chances) and it works on your mind a lot. Especially on this tour, I have felt it a lot actually but that is what cricket is all about. You have to wait for your chances to play for a team like India where you have so many stars and legend after legend (in the team). So I am trying my bit there." 

Given his blazing innings last night, Pandey will be a part of the playing 11 on Sunday for the decider and should also be on the travel party for the T20 tri-series in Sri Lanka next month.