IPL 2022: People Always Talk, Can't Help; My Name Always Sells - Hardik Pandya After GT's 7-Wicket Win Over RR
Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper Hardik Pandya said that he hardly focuses on the outside noise around his name and has always looked to perform on the field in a cool and composed fashion, much like the former skipper, MS Dhoni.
After leading Gujarat to the finals of IPL 2022 in their debut season, Hardik was expectedly over the moon with his team’s performances. Notably, he has taken the responsibility of anchoring the batting lineup as well by promoting himself up the order.
Despite the controversies surrounding him, Hardik has found a way to channel the noise and bring it out in a positive fashion for his new franchise.
“People always talk, that’s their job. I can’t help. The name ‘Hardik Pandya’ always sells. I’ve no problem with it, I just take it easy with a smiling face. Obviously, Mahi Bhai has played a big role in my life.”
“He’s a dear brother, a dear friend, and family to me. …I’ve learned a lot of good things from him. For me, it was more about being individually strong which I’m really proud of myself as well how I was able to manage all the parts,” Hardik said in the press conference after GT’s win.
“Before the captaincy as well, I always made sure that I approached all the situations in a cool-headed way. Generally, you make better decisions that way. For me in my life, and in my cricketing journey, it was important to give that 10-second extra rather than rushing in,” he further mentioned.
“I am genuinely proud of the way Miller has lifted his game” – Hardik Pandya
Speaking about the match-winning effort of David Miller, Hardik had nothing but praise for the Proteas player who has played a vital role in GT’s campaign. He scored a 38-ball 68 against RR in the tough run chase, finishing off the chase in style with 3 sixes in a row.
“I am genuinely proud of the way he (Miller) has lifted his game. He is genuinely a damn good, wonderful guy. I was proud to play with him, enjoy it. I always wanted good things to happen to him. A lot of people counted David Miller out.”
“But for us, he’s always a match-winner from the time we bought him at the auctions. We always knew what he’s capable of. We always expected him to do that. It was about giving him that importance, that love, and clarity of what we expect from him. if he fails, it’s okay, it’s just a game,” Hardik observed.
