Asia Cup 2022: Sanath Jayasuriya Lauds Hardik Pandya For His Performances Against Pakistan In The Asia Cup 2022

Sanath Jayasuriya, a former all-rounder for Sri Lanka, was delighted with Hardik Pandya’s performance against Pakistan on August 28 in the 2022 Asia Cup. The Gujarat Titans captain stepped up in a tight match to make a difference with both the bat and the ball as India defeated their bitter rivals by five wickets.

He bowled all four of his allotted overs, finishing with figures of 3-25, before leading the run chase in the last overs. The all-rounder helped India reach the 148-run target with two balls remaining by scoring 33 runs off just 17 deliveries.

In an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda, Sanath Jayasuriya credited Hardik Pandya for the match-winning performance:

“I am very delighted for him and extremely proud of him. This is what India desired, a victory over Pakistan, and he delivered. But this is a team game; it came down to the final ball, but everyone contributed.”

“The Indian bowlers bowled well to limit Pakistan to 147 runs. Pakistan’s bowlers also played a significant role in extending the game until the final over. It was a fantastic game, and full credit goes to Hardik Pandya.”

I thought Pandya was really good: Sanath Jayasuriya

The all-rounder lightened the burden by hitting three boundaries off Haris Rauf in the final over before ending the match in style.

Sanath Jayasuriya praised Pandya’s finishing abilities, saying “Everyone wants to see India vs. Pakistan because this is the match that both countries’ players desire to win. Pandya impressed me and seemed to be saving his best for last.”

“The last two overs were critical, and he batted brilliantly. You play, you enjoy your cricket, and you play to your strengths; he understands what his talents are, and he executed his plans wonderfully.”

For his exceptional performances across all departments, Pandya was named the Player of the Match.

Also Read: Jason Roy To Be Left Out Of T20I Squad For Pakistan Tour – Report