For me it was a good game to continue the rhythm – Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya produced a batting masterclass to cap off India's aggressive batting against Zimbabwe in the Super Eights, smashing an unbeaten 50 from just 23 balls. He struck two fours and four sixes in his innings while also delivering economical bowling figures, securing the Player of the Match award.

Talking at the post-match presentation, Pandya opened up about his fiery knock while shedding some crucial insights about his bowling performance. He also mentioned that the entire Indian team had their sights set on the crucial battle between South Africa and West Indies, the game that preceded India’s encounter.

Underlining the dynamics during his innings, Pandya said, “Pretty happy. I mean, yeah, it sounds strange 23-ball 50, but I think I had to reassess in the situation as well. What I meant by that, I felt I was trying to hit too hard. And just in the game, I realized, I think I can time the ball and hit sixes as well. So I think for me, it was a good game to continue the rhythm because I feel a couple of games I had which I could not do what I wanted to do. So really satisfied.”

Talking about the game between West Indies and South Africa, Hardik added, “Obviously, when South Africa played, that South Africa and West Indies game was, we all were keeping an eye. You know, now it’s all about playing good cricket, backing your skill set, you know, kind of absorbing the pressure and, making sure that you put the best foot forward. So yeah, definitely we were keeping an eye, but at the same point of time, once the game got over, we focused that this is our game. We need to focus on this.”

He concluded by talking about his faring with the ball, stating, “Pretty good. I think I like bowling with a new ball. It swings. I mean, God has been kind. I have the skillset of bowling in swing, out swing both. So I really enjoy. I think it gives me the opportunity to take wickets as well. It challenges the batter as well. So yeah, pretty satisfied. I still have to bowl my one over, which I’m going to go after this.”