(Credit ICC)
Hardik Pandya emerged as a pivotal figure in India’s T20 World Cup triumph, contributing significantly with 144 runs at a strike rate of 151.58 and capturing 11 wickets across 8 matches in the tournament.
His performances played a crucial role in securing India’s second T20 World Cup victory, ending a 17-year drought, and their first ICC title in 11 years. Despite his nearly decade-long international career, Pandya had experienced many setbacks before this notable success.
Mohammad Kaif Praises Hardik Pandya
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif recently commended Hardik Pandya for his outstanding performances during the tournament. Kaif highlighted Pandya’s journey from facing criticism in the IPL to earning praise following India’s T20 World Cup victory, noting that Pandya responded to his critics with remarkable style.
“What a comeback for Hardik after getting booed in the IPL. Match winning contribution with bat in the Super 8s and crucial wickets of Klassen and Miller in the Final. Make him wear the India blue and everything he touches turns to gold. True India champion. #T20WorldCup2024” said Kaif on Hardik.
The Indian all-rounder had a challenging IPL season with the Mumbai Indians, where his team finished last with just four wins and 10 losses. During this time, he faced criticism and was often booed at stadiums, drawing the ire of many Indian fans.
However, he quickly turned his fortunes around. In a crucial moment during the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, he defended 16 runs in the final over by dismissing David Miller and Kagiso Rabada, sealing India’s victory and ending South Africa’s hopes.
Throughout the tournament, the all-rounder showcased his prowess with both bat and ball. He contributed crucial scores of 32, 50*, 27*, 23, and 5*, all contributing to victories. With the ball, he took three wickets in the final and three more in the opening match against Ireland. He also claimed two wickets each against Pakistan and the USA, and one against Bangladesh.
After his pivotal performance in the final, the Indian all-rounder expressed deep emotions, reflecting on the challenges he had faced in recent months in his post-match comments.
Following the T20 World Cup win, stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirement from T20Is. With his recent stellar performances, the all-rounder emerges as a strong candidate for the T20I captaincy. The BCCI may also consider names like Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav for the role.
