The cricket world is abuzz with reactions following Hardik Pandya’s extraordinary comeback in the T20 World Cup 2024. After being ruled out of the 2023 World Cup due to an injury, Pandya returned with a vengeance, leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup and earning the title of the most valuable player. His performances have garnered praise from cricket legends like Rohit Sharma, Irfan Pathan, and AB de Villiers.
Hardik Pandya’s Journey
Pandya’s road to recovery began after he was sidelined during the 2023 World Cup due to a back injury. Despite a lackluster performance with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, his determination and hard work paid off in the T20 World Cup.
Pandya’s Key Stats in T20 World Cup 2024:
- Matches Played: 7
- Runs Scored: 267
- Wickets Taken: 12
- Most Valuable Player: Named by ICC for his all-round performance.
Irfan Pathan’s Reaction
Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan, who had previously criticized Pandya during his rough patch, was among the first to praise him. Pathan highlighted the significance of Pandya’s journey from criticism to triumph.
“I was one of the critics. Coming back from all the criticism to winning the World Cup has been special,” Pathan remarked.
AB de Villiers’ Tribute
South African cricket legend AB de Villiers also lauded Pandya’s performance. Despite his initial reluctance to see Pandya succeed against South Africa, de Villiers expressed immense respect for Pandya’s resilience and leadership.
“Hardik made everyone proud out there. He is a big man for big moments, and that has earned him a place in the hearts of cricket fans for the future,” de Villiers said.
Rohit Sharma’s Praise
During a celebration event at Wankhede Stadium, Indian captain Rohit Sharma took a moment to appreciate Pandya’s efforts. Sharma emphasized Pandya’s crucial role in India’s World Cup victory, particularly his performance under pressure.
“I was blown away by Hardik’s performance. He bowled the crucial overs and was a standout player when it mattered the most. The chants of ‘Hardik, Hardik’ were well-deserved,” Sharma stated during the celebration.
Impact on Indian Cricket
Pandya’s comeback is not just a personal triumph but a significant boost for Indian cricket. His contributions were vital in clinching the T20 World Cup, and his all-round capabilities make him an indispensable asset for the team. The ICC recently ranked Pandya as the number one all-rounder in T20 internationals, a testament to his impact on the game.
Pandya’s ICC Rankings:
- T20I All-Rounder: Ranked No. 1 by ICC
Conclusion
Hardik Pandya’s comeback story is a testament to his resilience and determination. The accolades from cricket legends underscore the significance of his achievements and the inspiration he provides to aspiring cricketers. As India celebrates this remarkable victory, Pandya’s journey from injury to becoming a world champion will be remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in cricket history.
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