He went for big runs in the opener but came back strongly to help India level the series against Australia here Sunday and all-rounder Krunal Pandya said it was difficult to convince himself he belongs to the big stage after the thrashing in Brisbane.
Krunal said that he was down and out after a poor showing in the first T20 and needed to set the record straight for a consistent showing at the international level.
Krunal registered career-best figures of 4-36 as he helped India beat Australia by six wickets in the final T20 match to level the three-match series 1-1.
"It is very difficult when you play your first game in Australia and you get hammered for 53 from 4 overs. To come out of that was not easy. It took me a while to back myself much more, especially when you have hardly played any game at this level," he said at the post-match press conference.
"Giving away 50-plus runs in Brisbane was very tough for me and the next 24 hours were tough. I had to convince myself again. Whatever anyone says, it takes some time to set in. When I played the second game (in Melbourne), I was very clear with my plans what I have to do," Krunal said.
"When you come back like this, it is very satisfying. You had such a bad day and then against the same opponent you do well, it gives satisfaction, happiness and a surety that you belong to this level. You haven't played at this level and then you perform like this it gives you hope that you can play at this level."
"As a bowler you have to understand this is T20 format, and it is part and parcel of game. One day you will get hit and one day you will get wickets."
"Thus, a lot of credit goes to Kuldeep for creating pressure at the other end. It helped me to get those wickets."
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