Hardik Pandya on India not travelling to Pakan: ‘This is way above my pay grade’ | Cricket News

Hardik Pandya has revealed the reason behind the success of the current Indian team and also explained how tough times have made him battle-ready.
“This team enjoys each other’s company and success. It is not an individually driven team. It’s Team India,” he told reporters.
“We all believe that everyone can finish the game or do something magical. We have all come together for one goal; if you score zero, it doesn’t matter as long as the team is winning.”
Story continues below this ad

The Indian all-rounder also thanked the fans in Pakan and addressed the query about India not traveling to Pakan for the Champions Trophy. He said, “I am sure Pakani people living in Dubai must have enjoyed our performance. The question of why we didn’t go is way above my pay grade.”
India’s Hardik Pandya plays a shot during the ICC Champions Trophy cricket match between India and New Zealand at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Sunday, March 2, 2025. (AP Photo)
On his playing style, Hardik said he only plays to win.
“I have always played cricket to win. This is not just a dialogue.
“I have always put the team above myself. It doesn’t matter if Hardik Pandya does well or not, but the team must do well. This mindset has helped me face hardships and taught me not to run away from challenges.Story continues below this ad
“If challenges are tough, throw punches. Keep fighting. Don’t leave the battlefield. If you give up, you won’t learn and grow.
“It’s like fielding; if you dive, you will be able to stop the ball. If you don’t, you will never understand the outcome.”
India vs Pakan Champions Trophy 2025 match saw Hardik Pandya dismiss Babar Azam, but what stole the spotlight was his ₹6.9 crore Richard Mille watch. Find out more about his luxury watch collection and its unique features. (Source: BCCI/X)
Hardik has played the role of India’s second seam bowler in the tournament. On his bowling, Pandya said, “Lately, bowling has become very close to my heart. If Hardik Pandya is bowling, then I don’t have to worry about my batting. My bowling takes care of my batting.”
When asked about his six-hitting prowess, he said, “I have liked hitting sixes since I was 14 years old. But back then, I didn’t have the strength. Now I have the power. The years of hard work are paying off at the right time.”Story continues below this ad
Pandya also reflected on the 2017 Champions Trophy loss against arch-rivals Pakan in the final. He said, “Now that we have won, I can say that I have avenged that 2017 final loss. But eight years is a long time; a lot has happened. For me, India’s win is important. Fans back home are happy; this is the best we can offer from our side.”