MI vs CSK | Focused on IPL and World Cup, asserts Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya has only played seven ODIs and eight T20Is since the South Africa series which ended in February 2018. He was ruled out for a substantial period of time due to his back injury, and was banned in the series Down Under against Australia, after he had received public backlash owing to his misogynistic comments on a TV show. He made a return in the series against New Zealand, but was once again out of action in the next home series against Australia, due to another back injury.

The all-rounder finally found some game time Indian Premier League, and he announced his arrival with a bang, as he has scored back to back aggressive innings. The Baroda player has now stated that his full focus is on performing well for Mumbai Indians in the IPL, and then for India, in the World Cup starting May 30.

“Now my only focus is to play IPL and make sure India wins the World Cup,” Hardik stated at the post-match press, reported PTI.

Pandya was awarded the man of the match for his all round performance in Wednesday’s match against Chennai Super Kings, where he smashed a quickfire 25 off eight balls, and even clinched three crucial wickets. The all rounder had showed glimpses of form even in his earlier two innings down the order where had smashed 31 and 32 off 19 and 14 deliveries, respectively.

“It feels pretty good to help the team to win and contribute. It’s been seven months that I’ve hardly played games. They weren’t easy and I didn’t know what to do. I’ve just batted and batted. I want to improve my game every day. It’s a fantastic feeling batting like that and making your team win,” the 25 year old added.

Pandya has issued a statement of sorts to all those who had questioned his credentials, and did not fail to acknowledge the support of his kith and kin.

“I was out with injury and then some other controversy happened. I want to dedicate this Man of the Match to my family and friends, who stood with me in the toughest times,” he signed off.