In the first T20I match against South Africa, Team India emerged victorious by 101 runs at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack.
During the match, the fans witnessed a crucial knock played by Team India`s premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Facing just 28 deliveries, he smashed an unbeaten 59 runs, which was laced with six boundaries and four maximums.
Reflecting on his explosive knock, the right-hander expressed satisfaction and said that he was looking to time the ball correctly to produce maximum results.
“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 after the match.
He also bagged one wicket by conceding 16 runs in two overs.
Further speaking, he said being at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) has helped him to cover all the things in his game.
“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 (National Cricket Academy), making sure that all these things are covered. It was satisfying when you come here, the results come like this,” said Pandya.
He then revealed that mindset of putting the team`s wants ahead of the individual`s wants, which helps him to perform at the highest level.
“As a cricketer, I have never been fussy about what roles I have in the game. I have always been motivated to all the time 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 the 32-year-old all-rounder.
Following his all-round performance, Hardik Pandya was also named the “Player of the Match” award.
The second T20I match between Team India and South Africa is scheduled to be played on December 11 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in Punjab.
(With ANI Inputs)