India all-rounder Hardik Pandya recalled his journey as he celebrated India’s T20 World Cup 2024 win with his teammates during the special victory parade in Mumbai. Notably, the Indian team were given a great reception upon their arrival back home as well. They first met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for breakfast and later travelled to Mumbai for a special victory parade organized by the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) as well.
In a video released by the BCCI, Hardik Pandya said, “I must be on the road (in 2007) because in 2011, I was on the road, celebrating the same team when they came. For me it’s more surreal that after 13 years the next trophy that we’ve got, which I celebrated, I am part of the team. It’s Bombay for me eventualy, where my journey started and this will be more special, getting the cup back home and it’s so many people’s heart full of joy and happiness. I don’t think there is any more bigger pleasure or blessing than this.”
Meanwhile, the Gujarat-born cricketer also thanked the Mumbai crowd for showering so much love and support in their celebrations. However, it was noteworthy that, he was booed by the Mumbai crowd during Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024) after replacing Rohit Sharma as the skipper of MI.
“I’ve been very fortunate enough to be part of something so amazing which I’ll remember for the rest of my life and at the same point of time, everyone in this team. That’s what we all work hard for. We work hard to be in this kind of situation, this kind of atmosphere, and the happiness we can provide. Can’t be more happy than finishing our all the formalities and all the celebrations in Mumbai. Mumbai didn’t disappoint. Mumbai was the best. Aamchi Mumbai!,” he further added.
Hardik Pandya played a key role in India’s title-winning campaign with both bat and ball scoring 144 runs from six innings at an average of 48 and a strike rate of 151.57 registering one fifty as well. His highest score of the tournament came against Bangladesh in the Super 8 stages when he scored an unbeaten 50* (27) as well. With the ball, he picked up 11 wickets from eight innings at an average of 17.36 and an economy of 7.64 as well.
