Following India’s thrilling four-wicket win over New Zealand to claim the ICC Champions Trophy title, all-rounder Hardik Pandya dedicated his success to his late father, saying that he has been “blessing” him with everything he has achieved.
A Tournament to Remember for Hardik
Hardik delivered another impactful performance in an ICC tournament, contributing with both bat and ball. He scored 99 runs in four innings, with a highest score of 45, and picked up four crucial wickets. His consistency in big tournaments once again proved why he is a match-winner for India.
Speaking to the media after the match, Hardik reflected on his journey, saying:
“From where we (he and his brother Krunal Pandya) have come, this was all just a dream for us. We had never thought of this. I think we can just thank god and keep working harder, and he keeps giving us. Even though our father is not with us, I know he is watching us, he has been blessing us with the things we are getting.”
Redemption After the 2017 Final Loss
Eight years after falling short in the 2017 Champions Trophy final despite a brave 76-run knock against Pakistan, Hardik felt that his unfulfilled dream had finally been realized.
“These eight years have been so long. So much has happened. At the same time, India’s win has been very important for me. If that happens, toh sab bhala. I hope everyone is happy back home and celebrating,” he said.
Mindset as a Senior Player
Hardik, now a senior member of the squad, emphasized that he never sees a difference between seniors and juniors in the team.
“Whatever I have learned in my career so far in 9-10 years, if I am able to share my experiences with newer guys, I am not helping just him, but my team. If I can contribute even 1% to someone performing better, that has always been my mindset.”
He also spoke about overcoming challenges, saying:
“If you do not leave the battlefield, you will have a chance. If you go home and cry, you would not be able to see the outcome. If you dive, you can stop the ball. If you do not, you won’t. This learning has helped me with life and cricket both.”
Bowling and Self-Belief
Hardik revealed that bowling is closest to his heart, saying it gives him confidence in his overall game.
“If Hardik is bowling, I do not have to worry about my batting because it can take care of itself. I was fond of hitting sixes since I was 14. I did not have power back then, but now I have power. It is my hard work that is paying off.”
His self-belief has been a major factor in his success.
“If you do not trust yourself, how can others trust you? I have always trusted myself. I have always prepared behind the scenes. What you prepare, it gets reflected in your game.”
India’s Team-First Mentality
Hardik highlighted that India is not an individual-driven team but one that thrives on collective success.
“We believe that everyone can do something magical,” he concluded.
Match Summary: India’s Road to Victory
New Zealand, opting to bat first, put up 251/7 in 50 overs. Michael Bracewell (53) and Daryl Mitchell (63)* anchored the innings, while Kuldeep Yadav (2/40) and Varun Chakravarthy (2/45) led India’s bowling attack.
India’s chase started strongly with Rohit Sharma (76) and Shubman Gill (31) adding 105 runs. After a mini-collapse, Shreyas Iyer (48) and Axar Patel (29) stitched a crucial 61-run stand. Finally, KL Rahul (34) and Hardik Pandya (18)* sealed the victory with six wickets and one over to spare.
With this triumph, India lifted its third ICC Champions Trophy, marking yet another glorious chapter in its cricketing history.