Hardik Pandya's journey to T20 World Cup 2024 hero was a story of redemption. Just months earlier, during IPL 2024, he faced harsh criticism and fan backlash. This came after his removal as Mumbai Indians captain and his underwhelming performance for the team. The online trolling and stadium jeers seemed to weigh heavily on him, leading to his worst IPL season to date. However, in a remarkable turnaround, Pandya silenced his critics with a stellar performance at the T20 World Cup. He emerged as a key player for India's triumphant campaign, proving his talent and resilience on the biggest stage.
Hardik Pandya refused to let his rough patch define him. Despite the criticism and struggles with the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024, the talented Baroda all-rounder rose to the occasion when it mattered most. Pandya's T20 World Cup 2024 was a masterclass in all-round performance. His contributions with both bat and ball were instrumental in India's title victory after 11 long years.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar couldn't help but sing Pandya's praises. He highlighted Pandya's ability to thrive under pressure, specifically mentioning his crucial wickets of Klaasen and Miller in the nail-biting final against South Africa. Manjrekar also pointed out Pandya's composed bowling in the final over, which ultimately sealed the win for India. This, according to Manjrekar, showcased Pandya's maturity and reliability in high-pressure situations.
Manjrekar didn't stop there. He also lauded Pandya's batting skills, recalling his swashbuckling knock of 60 runs off just 33 balls against England in the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final, even though India fell short in that match.
Hardik Pandya's journey to World Cup hero was an emotional rollercoaster. He entered the tournament facing immense pressure after a difficult IPL season. However, Pandya rose above the negativity and showcased his trademark versatility. His ability to perform under pressure and swing the momentum of a match with his aggressive yet calculated approach was on full display in the West Indies. As India celebrates their T20 World Cup victory, Pandya's resurgence is a testament to his talent and perseverance. He silenced his critics and solidified his status as a match-winner for India. Even former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar wasn't surprised by Pandya's heroics, highlighting his belief in the all-rounder's capabilities.
“I told them to behave because this is a big stage player. We've seen that numerous times. Wickets of Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and right at the end, Kagiso Rabada. So, Hardik was the champion and no surprise to see him flourish on the big stage," Sanjay Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.
"Even in the semi-finals against England at Adelaide, he came in and gave India some hope with a remarkable knock of 60 runs off 33. So that's what he's all about. And you felt safe when he came in and bowled the last over. Because he was not going to lose his nerves. He was going to bowl sensibly,” he added.
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