Hardik Pandya. (Photo Source: Instagram/HardikPandya)
India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s recent Instagram post has gone viral, showing his remarkable transformation and journey from an injury incurred in the 2023 ODI World Cup to T20 World Cup 2024 triumph.
Following India’s victory in the ICC T20 World Cup on June 29, Pandya received a hero’s welcome in his hometown of Vadodara. The celebration included a roadshow attended by thousands of fans, marking a significant contrast to the challenges he faced earlier in the year.
Pandya’s post features two images side by side, witnessing his physical transformation. The first image depicts him looking somewhat out of shape following an injury last year. The second image reveals a more muscular and fit Pandya, reflecting his hard work and dedication to recovery. In his Instagram caption, Pandya acknowledges the difficult journey he endured.
A post shared by Hardik Himanshu Pandya (@hardikpandya93)
“Was a difficult journey after the freak 2023 Cup injury, but well worth the effort with the T20 WC win. The results come as long as you put in the effort. Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Let’s all try our best and work on our fitness,” Hardik caption his Instagram post.
Also read: Hardik Pandya ‘completely fit’ to lead India for Sri Lanka T20Is
Hardik scalped 11 wickets in T20 World Cup
The all-rounder’s performance in the T20 World Cup was instrumental in India’s success. He scored 144 runs in six innings with an impressive average of 48.00 and took 11 wickets in eight games.
His crucial contributions in the final against South Africa, including the vital wickets of Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller, played a significant role in India’s seven-run victory.
Pandya’s journey to redemption is particularly noteworthy given the controversies he faced earlier in the year. After taking over the captaincy of Mumbai Indians from Rohit Sharma in IPL 2024, he faced intense criticism and was booed in stadiums across India.
Also read: Rohit Sharma in contention to play ODI series vs Sri Lanka
However, his stellar performance in the T20 World Cup has silenced critics and won back the hearts of fans.