ICC World Cup 2019: India Means Everything to Me – Hardik Pandya
Jun 14, 2019 at 12:03 PM
The Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is keen to be a part of World Cup-winning squad which is partaking in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2019 in England and Wales.
The 25-year-old Pandya, who has appeared more of a batting all-rounder, believes there is no pressure as the Men in Blue are only backed by 1.5 billion people who expect them to lift their third overall coveted World Cup after 1983 and 2011.
“(There is) no pressure because only maybe 1.5 billion people are expecting, so no pressure at all,” ICC quoted Pandya as saying in a video.
Over the years, the Baroda-based all-rounder has done an exceptional job, by producing a good show with the bat in particular. He is focusing on giving his best at the ODI showpiece. So far, India has won both their matches of the ongoing twelfth edition of the World Cup.
Pandya aims to lay hands on the ICC World Cup 2019 trophy:
With finale schedule on July 14, Pandya is expecting to lay hands on the World Cup trophy at the iconic venue in Lord’s.
“On 14th July I want to have a Cup in my hand, that is the only thing. Even when I think of it it gives me goosebumps. My plan is simple – win the World Cup. I am hoping that and I expect that from myself,” Pandya said.
Pandya, who himself wants to improve in bowling, maintained he takes pride in playing for Team India. He reiterated he is always up to face any situation. Also, stressed upon the fact that he among the players who cherish the game most.
“(Playing for) India means everything to me, this is my life. I am someone who plays the game with love, passion and loves challenges. Three and a half years I have been preparing for this, so the time has come,” Pandya elaborated.
While talking about his World Cup preparations, Pandya revealed it took him three and half years to live his dream.
“Eight years down the line playing the 2019 World Cup, it’s been a dream. And my team-mates are my brothers,” Hardik said.
Pandya recalls 2011 World Cup win:
While recalling India’s 2011 World Cup triumph over Sri Lanka at Wankhede, Pandya added his friend sent him a photograph of India celebrating the World Cup victory which further saw people taking to the streets to relish India’s win.
“A few days back my friend sent me a picture and asked ‘if you remember this’ and I was like ‘I sure do’. He clicked the picture of us celebrating after Indian winning the World Cup in 2011. And we were on the street because it was a festival. I have never seen so many people out in one night. It actually made me emotional,” Pandya stated.
In conclusion, Pandya has also revealed that his struggle has made him strong and he is a ‘happy soul’.
While playing his maiden World Cup, Pandya has impressed one and all with his power-hitting.
The 25-year-old all-rounder Pandya couldn’t yield a result with the ball, but he has scored 48 against Australia after 15 not out against South Africa in Southampton.