“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 kind of realise 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 bowling a sensational last over. He did the same during the semi-final against England, where India looked to be on the ropes.
After Bumrah bowled a sensational 18th over, Hardik came on and was received with a six by Jacob Bethell. He didn’t flinch and go into a shell or lose focus. Hardik picked up the wicket of Sam Curran in the same over to put more pressure on England.
“There are two ways in life. I could have got my heart racing and not been able to execute, so I went into my Zen mode. It’s quite amazing that instead of my heartbeat rushing, I stayed still. I’m really proud of that,” said Hardik.
This was followed up with a sensational fielding effort by the all-rounder as he was able to run out Bethell in the final over, which sealed the win for India. This allowed him to win the Impact Player Of The Match medal, given by the Indian team management.
“One batter I had to get out from the field was Bethell, the way he was batting. I knew I had to keep calm and throw it where it was supposed to be. I would have liked it a little closer to the stumps, but nevertheless we got the job done,” said Hardik.
‘BEING THE FAMILY MAN’
The reaction from Hardik after dismissing Bethell was telling as he was very animated in his celebration, pumping 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 was,” said Hardik.
Hardik has scored 199 runs for India in eight matches and has picked up 8 wickets as well.
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