India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya said he does not make a fuss about his role in the team and always prioritizes India’s needs after a dream comeback during the Cuttack T20I against South Africa. Hardik played his first match for India since the injury during the Asia Cup. The all-rounder first spent time at the BCCI Center of Excellence before taking part in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he helped his home team win a thriller with the bat.
Hardik returned to the Indian team and gave a complete all-round performance to help the team the hosts secured a 101-run win. His unbeaten 59 sent India to 175 for 8 and he followed that up by dismissing David Miller as India brushed aside the challenge of the Proteas.
IND vs SA 1st T20I: Highlighting | Scorecard
During the post-match presentation, Hardik said that he is always motivated to fulfill whatever role the team asks of him. He emphasized that the needs of the team are more important than his personal preferences.
“As a cricketer, I didn’t care about the roles I was given on the field. I was always motivated when I stepped on the field and I made sure that I could handle whatever roles were given to me. It doesn’t matter what Hardik Pandya wants. The only thing that matters is what India wants. Whenever I get an opportunity, I come out and sometimes I try to commit to my team, sometimes I try to put it off. Nation first, for any team I’ve played for. That is my biggest USP and that has always helped me,” said Hardik.
NO BTS NOISE
Hardik came on as India struggled at 72 for 4 in the 12th over and desperately needed a boost. The all-rounder attacked Keshav Maharaj to unsettle the left-arm spinner before taking on the rest of the bowlers, smashing six boundaries and four sixes.
Hardik said he was just supporting his shots keeping the tricky surface in mind.
“Yeah, I had to back off. At the same time, I had to realize that the wicket has a bit of spice. So I had to be a bit brave. It was more about timing the ball. I didn’t try to break the ball. Yeah, I was very happy with the way I batted tonight,” Hardik said.
He added that he doesn’t make a big deal out of the hard work he puts in behind the scenes, but it was rewarding to see his efforts pay off over the past few months.
“The last 6-7 months have been amazing for me fitness-wise. I don’t do a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes. At the same time, during these 50 days away from my loved ones, spending time at NCA and making sure everything is covered, it’s very satisfying to come here and the result is like this,” said Hardik.
India and South Africa will play the second T20I on Thursday, December 11.
– The end
Published on:
December 9, 2025
