India tour of South Africa 2013-14 Vs 2017-2018 - 5 things that have changed

#3 Inclusion of a fast bowling all-rounder - Hardik Pandya

In 2013, India did not include any all-rounders in the side as there were not many potential all-rounders around that time in India's rather large pool of skilful individuals. Fast bowling all-rounders are an asset on green decks favourable for pace bowling. They help in maintaining the balance of the side which may look like this: six batsmen, one spinner, three pacers and one all-rounder.

Chipping in with important wickets and a significant contribution with the bat is what Hardik Pandya is capable of. In his 3 Test matches till date, Pandya has scored a century, a half-century and has picked up 4 wickets as well. His fielding is the cherry on top.

Pandya reminds many of Jacques Kallis - the South African all-rounder who was instrumental in the team's success over the years.