Test cricket is different challenge and Hardik Pandya needs to bowl: Virat Kohli

Hardik Pandya's stupendous batting in white ball series has given him an extra option of a designated "finisher" but India skipper Virat Kohli is clear that all-rounder needs to start bowling regularly in order to be considered for Test cricket.

Pandya was adjudged Man of series for scoring 90 and 92 in first and third ODIs respectively and a match-winning kck of 42 t out in 22 balls in second T20I, which helped India to seal T20 series.

Asked if he would be tempted to keep Pandya back as a pure batting option for upcoming four-Test series, Kohli answered in negative.

"Hardik couldn't bowl and we knew he will t be able to bowl but we saw in IPL head that he has been. But Test cricket is a different challenge and we need him to bowl," Kohli was clear about priorities.

"We have spoken about it. He is one guy who brings in a lot of balance for us in overseas conditions like South Africa, England. We were able to compete for longer periods of time and he adds a lot of balance in terms of his bowling." Kohli believes Pandya is getting into zone where he would like to perform in all formats of game.

"He is definitely in a zone where he wants to perform for India in all three disciplines. That's always been his 'X-factor'. In white ball cricket, we found some one who can finish games consistently," skipper said.

But according to him, even Pandya realises that he needs to get back to peak bowling form. "He himself wants to get back into bowling and make sure he is available in Tests because it becomes way more important for five days, that little bit extra. He understands that he has to come back fittest he is able to," he added.

(Photo Credit: Twitter/ICC)