All-rounder Hardik Pandya has been a revelation for Team India with his recent performances.
In the third ODI against England in Manchester, Hardik partnered with wicket keeper-batsman Rishabh Pant to rescue India from a tricky situation. After India were reduced to 72/4, Pandya scored a briskly 71 of just 55 balls and shared a 133-run stand with Pant for the fifth wicket.
The partnership helped India chase down their 260-run target in 42.1 overs and clinch the series 2-1. He also returned with his best-ever ODI bowling figures of 4/24 earlier to restrict the hosts to 259.
However, things were not so smooth till a couple of years ago for the aggressive cricketer. He underwent a lower back surgery in 2019 and it severely impacted his bowling capabilities following which he was dropped from the team. However, after a great show in the IPL 2022 where Gujarat Titans won the title under his leadership, Pandya was recalled to the team. He also led India in the two-match T20I series against Ireland successfully.
Pandya has shared an emotional video on his journey through ‘the ups and downs’.
“Through the ups and downs, with my people by my side. Woke up every morning raring to go, with the will to become stronger, with the will to become fitter and play for my country. Always grateful to those who stood by me, who encouraged me, who guided me,” Hardik captioned the video which is being relished by cricket buffs.