India fast bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya opened up on not bowling in the power play during the first T20I against South Africa at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. The fast bowling all-rounder who came to bowl the eighth over picked up the crucial wicket of David Miller. Notably, Hardik bowled with the new ball in its last assignment in the Asia Cup 2025 alongside pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
Hardik on not bowling in power play
Hardik bowled just two overs as other bowlers, Arshdeep Singh (2/14), Varun Chakaravarthy (2/19), Jasprit Bumrah (2/17), Axar Patel (2/7), Shivam Dube (1/1), picked up crucial wickets to bundle out South Africa on 74 runs, which is their lowest total in the shortest format of the game. While asked about not being able to bowl in the powerplay, the Mumbai Indians captain responded that it doesn't matter what Hardik Pandya wants; it is about what India wants.
"As a cricketer, I have never been fussy about what roles I have in the game. I have always been motivated to make sure that it doesn't matter what Hardik Pandya wants, it is about what India wants.
"The mindset helps me. I have always tried to put my team first. That is my biggest USP and that is what has helped me" said Hardik Pandya in post post-match conference.
Pandya on comeback
Returning to international cricket after recovering from a quadricep injury, Pandya smashed six fours and four sixes to lift India to 175 for six.
"I had to back my shots. I realised the wicket had a bit of spice. I had to be a bit gutsy. It was more about timing the ball, not breaking the ball. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting," he said.
Hardik on rehab
Pandya had missed tours to Australia and the ODIs against South Africa after sustaining a left quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup in September.
"The last six-seven months have been great from my fitness point of view. These last 50 days, being away from loved ones, being at NCA, making sure that all these things are covered. It was satisfying when you come here, the results come like this."
India will now face South Africa for the second T20I, which will take place on December 11 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh.