Hardik Pandya repeated his match-winning effort in the fourth T20I against England for India, ensuring a 15-run victory. He along with Shivam Dube, were the highest run scorers who shared the third-highest stand of 53 runs, proving to be highly crucial in lifting India to take an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune.

Hardik Pandya, known for his explosive batting and all-round contributions, expressed just how much his performances mean to him. In a video shared by the BCCI on X (formerly Twitter), he revealed that batting holds a special place in his heart.

“Batting has always been my number one (love), or close to my heart. It’s always a satisfying day when I contribute with the bat. At the same time, after such innings, I sleep wonderfully because of the joy it brings,” he said, emphasizing the personal satisfaction he derives from his batting success.

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The Indian all-rounder has been in top form, especially after playing a key role with the ball during India’s T20 World Cup victory over South Africa in the West Indies last year. Cricket, for Pandya, is more than just a game—it’s a way of life.

 

He explained, “For me, I love this sport way too much; it’s been my life, my priority, my first love. The sport always gives back what you give to it.” That commitment has been reflected in his dedication to cricketing, and his importance in the team received further testament in the T20 World Cup that India won last year; he had three wickets in the final. “The sport has given me so much love that I always feel like I have to turn up and be very, very honest and loyal to it,” Pandya added.

For Pandya, his biggest motivators have always been his fans. “I have played for the fans all my life,” he revealed. “Whenever I hear them chant my name, it is an added push. I would want to do well for them and make every moment they spent watching me worthwhile.

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It is a dream victory for Hardik Pandya, as nothing has changed so much after this T20 World Cup victory. He also appreciated the change saying, “A lot has changed post-World Cup. I really love entertaining the crowd and ensuring that every penny they’ve spent to watch the game is worth it.”

Hardik Pandya’s love for cricket and love for the spectators have motivated him to excel with such marvellous performances on the ground.