The Gujarat Titans (GT) made their debut in IPL 2022 and have been the most dominant team for the majority of the competition. They found a fantastic leader in Hardik Pandya, who has captained them to 10 victories in 13 matches.
On Sunday (May 15), GT registered an emphatic 7-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium.
The flamboyant all-rounder said in the post-match presentation that he has always embraced responsibility because it allows him to maintain control over the game.
“You put me on a spot. Yes, I would say I did pretty alright because having played in a previous franchise where a lot of responsibility was given to us as well and the kind of cricketer I am, I have always enjoyed responsibility where it kind of gives me ownership of things where I can control. And I feel where I have batted throughout my career has given me a lot of idea about how the game is going, which kind of bowler will be important in certain situations. Playing for a different franchise and doing what I have done in the past has helped me in my captaincy," Hardik said.
When asked about his relationship with head coach Ashish Nehra, Pandya stated he has a good rapport with the former India seamer, which has been beneficial for the team.
“Ashish Nehra and me are very similar in terms of mindsets. Our game sense… the best thing is without saying I kind of connect with him," he stated.
Hardik, 28, noted that the team's main goal was to win two points against CSK, regardless of the number of overs played out.
“We kind of won comfortably having seven wickets in hand and you don’t get extra points for finishing the game in the 15th or 16th over. So for us as a team we like to finish the game no matter when we finish," he said.
SEE ALSO: Wriddhiman Saha's 67* helps GT beat CSK by 7 wickets; confirm top two spot in points table
The captain emphasized that the side wants to keep its winning streak going, but rest will be given to the players in order to keep them fresh for the playoffs.
“Today it was hot so I wanted to take a breather as well (smiles), have some water, have some protein in the body and go back again. We will see if any players need a game off to be fresh for the playoffs, otherwise, for us, it is important to keep the momentum,"
The 28-year-old stated that he wants the core players to receive adequate match practice before the playoffs, but that if fast bowlers require respite, changes will be made.
“Obviously we want to give opportunities to new players, but we also want to ensure the core group playing throughout the season is intact and getting the match practice they require before the playoffs. Yes we might change here and there, fast bowlers if needed, but otherwise, we will be similar," he concluded.
(NEWS18 INPUTS)
