Champions Trophy: How Hardik Pandya tackled new-ball duty with Shami
What's the story
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has credited his natural fighting spirit for adapting to a new bowling role in the recently-concluded ICC Champions Trophy. With Jasprit Bumrah out of the tournament, Pandya was entrusted with the new ball along with senior pacer Mohammed Shami. Despite India mainly operating with four spinners, he bowled 24.3 overs in five matches and picked up four wickets.
Resilience
Perspective on challenges and preparation
Sharing his philosophy to tackle challenges during the tournament, Pandya said, "Bowling will take care of itself. The year was full of learnings and challenges. My mindset has never taught me to run away from challenges." Stressing the need to keep fighting, he added, "I have always believed that if the challenges are tough, throw some punches. If you don't leave the battlefield, then you have a chance."
Preparation
Confidence and hard work yield results
The all-rounder spoke about his unshakeable self-belief and how hard work pays off. "I have always had confidence in myself that I can do it. And at the same time, the hard work that goes behind the doors, it pays off," he said. Pandya also spoke about India's Champions Trophy win, which helped him overcome the bitter memories of India's loss to Pakistan in the 2017 final.
Performance
Pandya's role in Champions Trophy triumph
In the final against New Zealand, Pandya was instrumental, scoring 18 runs off 18 balls and sharing a crucial 38-run partnership for the sixth wicket with KL Rahul. Despite giving away 30 runs in three overs, his contribution was significant as India chased down a target of 252 with an over to spare. Pandya's performance also included taking the wicket of Babar Azam during India's high-profile match against Pakistan in Dubai.