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Hardik took three wickets in the match to help India contain Pakistan to a par total of 159 before he partnered with Virat to script one of India’s most historic wins against Pakistan.
Hardik Pandya’s magical spell turned India’s fortunes around (ICC Media)
In a recent interview with ICC, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya talked about how he was able to shift the momentum with the ball during India’s unforgettable four-wicket win against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.
Pakistan got off to a strong start, standing at 96/3 after 12 overs, seemingly in prime position for a humongous total.
Cometh the hour, cometh the man. Pandya was then handed over the ball in a move to bring about a change, and the all-rounder spoke about how he couldn’t crack the rivals at his first try due to the initial nerves.
“When I entered the field and experienced the atmosphere and the energy that everyone was bringing in, it was amazing. Though I have played many games, it was just very overwhelming. I was very excited,” stated Pandya in an interview with ICC.
“It’s been a rivalry for years, one we have been having on the field. There is always so much emotion, engagement and excitement. It’s a clash that people wait for and remember for the same,” added Pandya.
“I was a little excited in the first couple of overs with the bounce in the Australian pitches and gave away a couple boundaries.”
But a strong-willed Pandya reconfigured his plans, and came in with a vengeance during his second spell, knowing that the Pakistan batters were trying to go at him.
“My plan was very simple, it was more about coming in to back myself and being smart about my deliveries.”
When I came for the second spell, it was obvious that we needed a wicket. So I was aggressive, I wanted to take wickets. That was my mindset.”
Pandya smartly made the neccessary field adjustments, and went on to strike instantly in the over, scalping Shadab Khan and Haider Ali to turn the tables on the opponents.
“I think that’s the reason I was able to take the two wickets. My reaction after the wickets said it all, I was very satisfied.”
Hardik took three wickets in the match to help India contain Pakistan to a par total of 159 before he partnered with Virat to script one of India’s most historic wins against Pakistan.
