Anurag Kumar
Prior to scoring the decisive runs in India’s historic Asia Cup victory over archrival Pakistan, a jubilant Hardik Pandya had signaled his supreme confidence. Pandya assured his colleague Dinesh Karthik that he had everything under control when India needed six runs off three balls against Pakistan in last year’s Asia Cup matchup. At the moment, the star batsman had played the previous ball in the final over against Pakistan perfectly.
An on-form Pandya hit a six in the final over to secure Team India’s victory over Pakistan in the thrilling match. The star all-rounder was dubbed the match’s Most Valuable Player for his all-around performance. In Group A of the Asia Cup 2022 between India and Pakistan, Pandya remained unbeaten with 33 runs off 17 deliveries. A year after leading India to a memorable victory over the Green Army, Pandya is returning to the Asia Cup as India’s vice-captain.
Need #HardikPandya type of confidence in life. #INDvsPAK pic.twitter.com/C0L92yHUsg
— Shubhankar Mishra (@shubhankrmishra) August 28, 2022
‘A lot of emotions are attached by fans’
In an interview with Star Sports prior to India’s Asia Cup 2023 opener against Pakistan, all-rounder Pandya played down the Indo-Pak fervor surrounding the continental tournament. The 29-year-old stated that players avoid letting their emotions get the best of them during high-stakes contests between the two teams. “Fans attribute a variety of sentiments. For us, it is about facing a strong opponent, a team that has performed exceptionally well in recent years. A couple of finals have been played by them, and the tension between us is perpetual. Pandya stated, “We try to keep outside distractions at bay and concentrate on playing good cricket.”
The moment all #TeamIndia fans screamed in joy! 😍
Let us know how you celebrated @hardikpandya7's winning hit & catch him in action #INDvHKG in DP World #AsiaCup2022 on Aug 31.#BelieveInBlue #GreatestRivalry #INDvPAK #HardikPandya pic.twitter.com/tEJQtHjxkn
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) August 29, 2022
We can’t get too emotional about it because…’
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According to Pandya, India’s matches against Pakistan will test the players’ character and demeanor as they prepare for the ICC World Cup. “In the end, we are cricket players. We cannot let our emotions get the best of us, as this could lead to irresponsible decisions, which I do not support. At the same time, however, it is a mega event. I’ve observed how this event tests your demeanor and character, as well as your ability to swim in deep water. All of these variables excite me greatly, and I cannot wait,” Pandya said.
