Hardik Pandya was pressured to take up new ball duties within the Champions Trophy within the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, and the all-rounder mentioned his pure fighting abilities helped him adjust to the new role.
Pandya’s job was minimal within the event although as India primarily operated with 4 spinners.
He bowled simply 24.3 overs throughout 5 matches taking 4 wickets.
“Bowling will take care of itself. The 12 months was full of learnings and challenges. My mindset has by no means taught me to run away from challenges. I’ve at all times believed that if the challenges are powerful, throw some punches.
“If you don’t leave the battlefield, then you have a chance,” Pandya said during a mixed zone interaction after India’s triumph in Champions Trophy.
Pandya said he has been working behind the doors to eke out optimum performance from himself.
“I have always had confidence in myself that I can do it. And at the same time, the hard work that goes behind the doors, it pays off. I always believe that the way you prepare, you will be able to reflect that in the game, especially,” he added.
The victory in the ICC showpiece also helped Pandya erase the bitter memories of India’s defeat to Pakistan in the 2017 edition of which he was also a part of.
“I can say that an incomplete dream is over today. But 8 years is a very long time. A lot of things happened in life in 8 years. But at the same time, winning, and that too for India, is something very, very important for me.
“And this is not a dialogue, but it’s a rule of my life. I have always maintained that if Hardik Pandya doesn’t do anything, it’s fine. But if the team does well, it will be great,” he said.
Published – March 10, 2025 02:39 pm IST
