India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya marked his return to international cricket with a match-winning performance in the 1st T20I against South Africa, earning him the Player of the Match award. Coming back from a left quadriceps injury that sidelined him for tours to Australia and the ODI series against South Africa, Pandya delivered a blistering knock, smashing six fours and four sixes to guide India to 175/6.
Pandya on His Comeback: ‘I was very satisfied with my batting’
Speaking after the game, Pandya said, “I was very satisfied with my batting. I had to back my shots. I realised the wicket had a bit of spice. I had to be a bit gutsy. It was more about timing the ball, not breaking the ball. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting.”
Reflecting on his rehabilitation phase, he added, “The last six-seven months have been great from my fitness point of view. These last 50 days, being away from loved ones, being at NCA, making sure that all these things are covered. It was satisfying when you come here, the results come like this.”
Addressing his limited bowling role in the powerplay, Pandya said, “As a cricketer, I have never been fussy about what roles I have in the game. I have always been motivated to make sure that it doesn’t matter what Hardik Pandya wants, it is about what India wants. The mindset helps me. I have always tried to put my team first. That is my biggest USP and that is what has helped me.”
India captain Suryakumar Yadav commended Pandya’s all-round effort, while also explaining the bowling strategy. “I think Arshdeep and Bumrah were the perfect bowlers in the powerplay. Hardik coming back later on, him coming back from injury we had to take care of him,” the skipper said during the post-match presentation.
The second T20I between India and South Africa is set to take place on December 11 in Mullanpur, where India will look to build on their series lead. (PTI inputs)
