Hardik Pandya's comparison with Kapil Dev: Sunil Gavaskar speaks out

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar does not believe in comparing Hardik Pandya with legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev and said that there is no starting point in making any sort of a comparison.

"Kapil Dev should not be compared with anyone. He is not just a once-in-generation player but a once-in-a century cricketer just like Sir Don Bradman and Sachin Tendulkar. We should not compare him with anyone," Gavaskar told 'Aaj Tak' and looked quite agitated while making this point.

The former opener who is regarded as one of the best against the red ball also hit out at Shikhar Dhawan for his approach to opening the batting and said that the left-hander is not willing to learn and adapt in Test cricket.

"He believes in playing in the same manner which has brought him success till now. But in Tests, such shots will only result in a fall of wicket. Till a player makes a mental adjustment, he will continue to struggle against the red ball in overseas conditions," Gavaskar further added. 

More players in the mix

Speaking about the team composition, Gavaskar said that the tourists should look to play an extra batsman in Lord's and should look at including Cheteshwar Pujara in the mix. 

"I will play one more batsman at Lord's in the form of (Cheteshwar) Pujara. He has the technique and patience required for a Test match. Whose place he'll take will depend on the pitch. If the wicket isn't that green then I will pick him in place of Umesh Yadav and retain Hardik Pandya," he said.

He further believed that the Indian team had it in them to make a comeback in the Test series and that they should look to bat first if they win the toss. He cited the examples of the Wanderers Test where South Africa collapsed in the final innings which was very similar to how India fared in the Edgbaston Test.