All-rounder Hardik Pandya played a huge role in India's T20 World Cup 2024 triumph on Caribbean soil. After Hardik let out his emotions, he was one of the most enthusiastic in India’s celebrations when the team returned home. In the victory celebrations at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, a fan threw a t-shirt which was caught by Hardik . Jasprit Bumrah who was walking behind him was in splits as Hardik dropped the t-shirt on the ground after catching him. More than a week later, Hardik got a hero’s welcome at his hometown Vadodra where a fan threw a tennis ball at open bus victory parade. He showed good reflexes and caught the tennis ball as well.
The video has been making rounds on social media.
“Surreal (heart emoji) Thank you for all the love Baroda, thank you for the support and thank you for making this such a special day. So many emotions, but always grateful,” Hardik wrote in an Instagram post along with the video of his roadshow in Vadodra.
Krunal overwhelmed by support from Vadodra people
Hardik’s elder brother Krunal Pandya joined him in the celebrations as well amidst chants of ‘Hardik, Hardik!’ and thanked fans for turning up in huge numbers to shower their love for the 30-year-old. He also thanked them for clearing the way for an ambulance during the roadshow.
“Experiencing the incredible love in Vadodara - a city that we consider as our temple - was unforgettable. Huge thanks to everyone who cleared the way for an ambulance amid the celebrations. This gesture truly shows the spirit of responsible citizens. Deeply moved by our fans' response,” Krunal wrote on his social media handles.
Hardik’s fitness transformation
Hardik on July 17 also posted a before and after photo of his fitness transformation following the angle injury that he suffered during ODI World Cup 2023. The injury ruled him out for months.
“Was a difficult journey after the freak 2023 WC injury but well worth the effort with the T20 WC win. The results come as long as you put in the effort. Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Let’s all try our best and work on our fitness,” he wrote.
Hardik will be back in action in the upcoming three-T20I series against Sri Lanka. However, Suryakumar Yadav is likely to be appointed as T20I captain ahead of him.
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