Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul have suspended a couple of months ago for their controversial comments in the chat show named, Koffee with Karan. They missed some international matches as well but Hardik Pandya’s current form in IPL is not showing that he was banned from playing. The 12th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) has started in a great way for him and as the World Cup is around the corner, his formidable form makes the selectors relieved.
All the players are currently playing in the IPL and they are trying to perform as best as they can do because their performances might help them getting selected for the upcoming World Cup where the team have not announced yet. The selectors are watching their performance closely and they are happy with Pandya’s all-round match-winning performances.
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While talking to IANS, one of the national selectors said, “the World Cup is round the corner and as selectors, it is pleasing to the eye when you see someone like Hardik doing so well for Mumbai. It clearly shows that he has moved ahead and is focusing on his game. Whatever happened cannot be undone. But how you learn from those mistakes and rise is what is a true test of your character.”
“He has that X-factor. He is fearless in his approach. Say, you are faced with a situation in the World Cup when you have an improbable chase on hand, he could win you the game. Or if you need quick wickets, the captain can always hand him the ball. He is one of those guys who loves to rise to the challenge. An in-form Hardik is always an advantage for the Indian team.”
“Also, if you look at how he is playing for MI in this IPL, it definitely augurs well for the national team. The World Cup is round the corner and momentum is an important thing. A good show here will see him carry confidence into the showpiece event,” the source said to IANS.
Hardik Pandya became the match-winner for Mumbai yesterday when he scored 32* off 14 balls against Royal Challengers Bangalore, 31 off 19 balls against Kings XI Punjab and 25* off 8 balls against Chennai Super Kings and showed everyone how dangerous he could be. He has also picked up four wickets in this season of IPL so far.
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“These seven months weren’t easy and I wasn’t sure of what to do. My goal is to keep performing and hopefully, help India win the World Cup,” Pandya expressed after the game against Chennai on Wednesday.
