“The clutch is Hardik Pandya.
When the Indian all-rounder made this statement in the latest video released by the BCCI ahead of the T20 World Cup final, you realize that he is just stating a fact. During the T20 World Cup 2024 final, it was Hardik who followed up Jasprit Bumrah’s good work by playing a sensational knock. He did the same during the semi-final against Englandwhere India seemed to be on the ropes.
Read the full article
After Bumrah bowled a sensational 18th over, Hardik came in and Jacob Bethell took him for a six. He didn’t flinch and go into a shell or lose focus. Hardik took the wicket of Sam Curran in the same wicket to put more pressure on England.
“There are two ways in life. My heart could have been pounding and I wasn’t able to execute, so I went into my zen mode. It’s quite amazing that instead of my heart pounding, I stayed calm. I’m really proud of that,” said Hardik.
This was followed by a sensational effort from the all-rounder as he managed to run out Bethell in the final over to seal India’s victory. This enabled him to win the Impact Player Of The Match medal which is awarded by the Indian team management.
“One batsman I had to get off the field was Bethell as he was batting. I knew I had to keep calm and bowl it where it was supposed to go. I would have liked it a little closer to the stumps but still we managed it,” said Hardik.
‘BEING A FAMILY MAN’
Hardik’s reaction after dismissing Bethell was telling as he was very lively during the celebration and pumped up the entire side. The all-rounder said it was because his son Agastya and girlfriend Mahieka Sharma were present in the stands and he wanted them to feel his emotions during the game.
“The reaction was also because my son came and I wanted my son and my wife to enjoy this moment and feel how emotional I am,” Hardik said.
Hardik scored 199 runs for India in eight matches and also picked up 8 wickets.
T20 World Cup | T20 World Cup Schedule | T20 World Cup Points Table | T20 World Cup Videos | Cricket News | Live Score
– The end
Published on:
07 Mar 2026 11:46 IST
