Hardik Pandya was Team India’s driving force during their run-chase against Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2022 match at the Dubai International Stadium. The right-handed batter smacked an unbeaten knock of 33 runs off 17 balls, including four fours and a match-winning six.
The Babar Azam-led side was bowled out for 147 in 19.5 overs, courtesy of Bhuvneshwar Kumar ( 4 wickets) and Hardik Pandya (3 wickets). Chasing a target of 148 runs, India reached the target in 19.4 overs, winning the game by 5 wickets.
Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja said that Hardik worked hard to change people’s perception after the controversial Koffee With Karan episode in 2019. Speaking on Cricbuzz, he said, “Two years ago, when he and KL Rahul came out after drinking coffee with Karan, what did people think about the all-rounder?”
“The fans were not happy with him. After winning the game against Pakistan, his battle with the wrong perception is over. His battle is not with anyone, its enjoyment,” said Jadeja.
He also spoke about the calmness in Pandya’s batting. “He has got cool and calm and doesn’t hurry up things. He knows he can do it and backs himself in any situation,” he added.