India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya believes that a strong and positive mindset has been the driving force behind his powerful return to international cricket. After battling injuries and moments of self-doubt, the 32-year-old says he has come back “stronger, bigger and better.”
Pandya, returning after nearly two months out due to a left quadriceps injury, delivered a stunning all-round show in the opening T20I against South Africa. His 28-ball 59* and figures of 1/16 set the tone for India’s massive 101-run victory, marking his return in commanding style.
In a video shared on the BCCI.TV, Pandya opened up about the emotional and mental challenges of injury recovery.
“My mindset was really about coming back stronger, bigger, better. Injuries test you mentally, they bring doubts… but credit to the loved ones who stood with me,” he said.
The all-rounder added that his self-belief never wavered, a trait he believes fuels his performance. “I’ve always believed in myself. If you don’t believe in yourself, why would others? I don’t sugarcoat things, it’s never about what people think, it’s about how I feel inside. Now, I just want to play, enjoy every second on the field… ‘bigger and better’ will be my motto.”
Pandya also spoke about his connection with crowds, saying their energy feeds his hunger to perform. “You should be a rockstar, come in for 10 minutes and make people go crazy. That’s my motivation.”
Once booed by Mumbai fans after switching from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians in 2024, Pandya later won them back with his heroic T20 World Cup performance in the Caribbean. With a smile, he summed up his resilience: “Life has thrown lemons, I’ve always chosen to make lemonade.”
(By PTI Inputs)
Comments are closed.