Hardik Pandya back stronger after injury, leads India to big win

India’s dynamic all-rounder Hardik Pandya showcased his trademark flair on Tuesday, leading the team to a commanding 101-run victory against South Africa in the opening T20I. After nearly two months off the field due to a left quadriceps injury sustained during the Asia Cup, Pandya made a spectacular return, scoring an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls and taking 1/16 with the ball.

Speaking after the match, the 32-year-old emphasized the mental challenges injuries bring and how a positive mindset was key to his comeback. “My mindset was really about coming back stronger, bigger, better. Injuries test you mentally and at the same point in time, it kind of puts a lot of doubts. A lot of credit goes to my loved ones who supported me,” Pandya said in a video posted on bcci.tv.

The all-rounder highlighted how self-belief and inner confidence helped him overcome the difficult period. “I’ve stood strong, done a lot of things with grace, and that has helped me become even more confident, back myself, and trust my skills. I really believe in myself as a player. If you don’t believe in yourself, how would others believe in you?” he added.

Pandya also reflected on his approach to life and cricket, saying he doesn’t let others’ opinions affect him. “I’ve always tried to be honest and real in life. It’s never about what others think or how they perceive me. It’s always about how I feel inside. Now, it’s time to just play the sport and enjoy every second on the ground. Bigger and better is my motto,” he said.

The energy from the crowd, Pandya explained, plays a crucial role in his performance. “You should be a rockstar. When you perform for 10 minutes and the crowd goes berserk, that has been the biggest motivation for me,” he said. Pandya’s move from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians in 2024 initially met a hostile response from the local fans, but his performances in the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean won them over.

“Life has thrown a lot of lemons at me, but I’ve always thought I’d make lemonade,” Pandya added. “Every time I walk in, I feel the crowd is waiting, they’ve come to watch me bat. That energy pushes me to perform.”

With the T20 World Cup just two months away, Pandya’s return boosts India’s chances, giving the team a seasoned all-rounder in top form, ready to take on the world with confidence and flair.