FOR ME, IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT NEVER LEAVING THE BATTLEFIELD – HARDIK PANDYA
FOR ME, IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT NEVER LEAVING THE BATTLEFIELD – HARDIK PANDYA
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Speaking exclusively on Superstars on JioHotstar, Hardik Pandya commented on his learnings from TATA IPL 2024 season "Having played in the IPL for almost 11 years now, each season brings new energy and fresh positivity. The 2024 season was undoubtedly challenging for us as a group, but it also provided invaluable lessons. We analyzed those learnings and applied them while building our team for 2025. This time, we have assembled an experienced squad—players who have played a lot of cricket at the highest level. That in itself is exciting. The key now is to come together as a unit and execute our plans efficiently. If we do that, we will have some very good days ahead."
Pandya reflects on the TATA IPL auction, saying "The players we picked—especially the experienced ones—were always part of our plan. We had a clear idea of what we were looking for. This year, our primary objective was to build a strong bowling attack, considering that Wankhede is a challenging venue. Playing in the IPL in Mumbai, particularly at Wankhede, can be intimidating due to the high-scoring nature of the pitch. We wanted bowlers with experience, pace, and the ability to generate swing and bounce. I believe we have put together a well-balanced team, one that meets all our requirements from top to bottom. Now, it’s about turning up and delivering on the field."
Pandya's Message to young IPL players "The young players coming into the IPL are extremely talented. My message to them is simple—believe in yourself. They are here because they are good enough, but the biggest challenge at this stage is self-doubt. Sometimes, players start questioning whether they belong at this level, and that doubt can take away from their skill set. Managing that mental aspect is crucial. What I can offer them are the lessons I have learned over the years. In this game, there will be highs and lows. The key is to remain balanced, not just for one season but throughout their careers. Staying neutral will allow them to maximize opportunities and seize crucial moments. They will face tough tests, but sometimes all they need is a little patience. In terms of skill set, they are far ahead of where we were at 21 or 22. Their talent and fearless approach are already there—it’s just about reinforcing their belief in themselves."
Commenting on the need for perseverance and resilience in cricket, Pandya said "For me, it has always been about never leaving the battlefield. There have been phases in my career where my focus wasn’t necessarily on winning but on surviving and holding my ground. I realized that no matter what was happening around me, cricket would always be my greatest ally—it was my way forward. I kept pushing through, and when all the hard work finally paid off, it was beyond anything I could have scripted. The six-month phase where we won the World Cup, and then the kind of love and support I received upon returning—it was a complete 360-degree turnaround for me. Throughout that time, I knew that if I remained persistent, honest with my work, and gave my absolute best, I would come out stronger. I didn’t know exactly when that would happen, but as they say, destiny had its plan, and in my case, everything changed within two and a half months."
