Hardik’s sensational all-round performance was crucial in taking India over the line.
After India's thrilling five-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in their Asia Cup debut on Sunday (August 28), Hardik Pandya was over the moon as he produced a stellar all-round showing.
Electing to bowl first, India’s Bhuvneshwar Kumar (4/26 in 4 overs) and Hardik (3/25 in 4 overs) bowled exceptionally well to bundle out Pakistan for 147 in 19.5 overs.
Speaking in the post-match presentation ceremony, Hardik said he likes to bowl short and hard lengths, which force the batters to make a mistake.
"In bowling, it's important to assess the situations and use your weapons. For me, bowling short and hard lengths have been my strengths. It's about using them well and asking the right questions to make the batters commit a mistake. In a chase like this, you always plan over-by-over," Pandya said.
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The chase began with the Indian openers failing to give a good start. Virat Kohli, who came in at number 3, played a decent knock (35 off 34 balls).
In what came as a surprise to many, Ravindra Jadeja was sent out to bat at number 4 and that move paid off handsomely as the southpaw not only steadied the ship but also stitched a 52-run match-defining partnership with Hardik Pandya.
Jadeja was eventually dismissed after a well-made 35 off 29 balls. Hardik, who was going at full throttle, persisted and eventually drove his team home with a six off Mohammad Nawaz's bowling in the final over. He eventually remained unbeaten on 33 off 17 balls, including 4 fours and 1 six.
After the game, the all-rounder claimed that even if 15 runs were needed in the final over, he would have still felt confident in himself.
"I always knew that there is one young bowler and also one left-arm spinner. We only needed 7 off the last over but even if we needed 15, I'd have fancied myself. I know the bowler is under more pressure than me in the 20th over. I try to keep things simple," he added.
Hardik Pandya was rightfully adjudged Player-of-the-Match for his spectacular performance.
(INDIA TODAY INPUTS)