On his comeback to major international cricket, Hardik Pandya not only made a strong impression but has shown Team India what they were lacking with him on the sidelines due to fitness issues. Pandya was chosen as the player of the series and also played a decisive role in the third and final ODI of the series against England at the Old Trafford.
The quick-bowling all-rounder registered the best figures for India with the ball. Pandya managed to dismiss both Jason Roy and Jos Buttler who both looked threatening. He also picked up the wickets of Ben Stokes and Liam Livingstone to complete a wonderful set for his four-wicket haul. Having bowled seven overs, three of which were maidens, he conceded just 24 runs.
Despite registering his career best ODI figures of 4/24, at the post-match presentation ceremony, the 28-year-old described himself as a shameless bowler who doesn’t mind getting hit for big shots as long as he is getting important breakthroughs for his team.
“I love short balls. Don’t fancy people taking me on. Gets me into the game. Don’t mind getting hit for six sixes also if I can get a wicket.
“I always feel I’m shameless as a bowler. Don’t care how far I get hit,” Hardik said.
His wonderful spell of 4/24 was far from being his only contribution in the final match though.
With the bat in hand and the helmet on his head, Pandya also played a pivotal role by partnering Rishabh Pant at the other end and taking on the impetus of scoring runs. He eventually made 71 runs off 55 deliveries and forged a 133-run partnership with Pant that completely swung the match in India’s favour.
Rishabh Pant, meanwhile, remained not out on 125 from 113 deliveries and finished off the match in scintillating style. Pant also won the man of the match award after scoring his first ODI century and confessed that he will probably remember this knock for the rest of his life.
“Hopefully I remember (this knock) for the rest of my life. I was focusing on one ball at a time when I was batting. When your team is under pressure and you bat like that .. something I aspire to do,” said Pant.
