Assigned to open the innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore, Pandey grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

And he credits captain Anil Kumble and coach Ray Jennings' for reposing faith in him.

"In the team meeting he [Kumble] told me that I would open the innings today. He said he has faith in me and told me to back my abilities. He said the track looked good and no matter how badly I played I would still score good runs.

"Jennings told me to play my natural game. He told me not to fear failure and to have fun in the centre," he said.