Hardik Pandya: From Adversity to Triumph
Mumbai: In the annals of comeback stories, Hardik Pandya’s stands among the greatest. Rarely has Indian cricket seen a player experience such lows and ascend to the summit within a few months. Following an ankle injury in the ODI World Cup, Pandya’s journey back was filled with disappointment and dejection but also with immense resilience and determination.
A Return to Mumbai Indians
Once a key player for the dominant Mumbai Indians, Pandya had moved to Gujarat Titans for a couple of years. His return to Mumbai, replacing ‘Mumbaicha Raja’ Rohit Sharma, angered many fans. Despite the belief that IPL fans differ from international cricket fans, Pandya faced severe backlash. Reports of separation from his wife, Natasa Stankovic, added to his struggles.
The Fans’ Wrath
Pandya faced boos, heckles, and negativity when he first led the Mumbai Indians at Ahmedabad in their season opener. The harshest response came at the Wankhede Stadium, his home ground. Commentator Sanjay Manjrekar even asked the crowd to ‘behave’ during a match against Rajasthan Royals due to the relentless booing.
A Hero’s Welcome
Despite the initial negativity, Pandya’s fortunes changed. After leading India to a World Cup victory, he returned to Mumbai to deafening cheers. The Wankhede Stadium and Marine Drive were filled with fans chanting his name. Pandya shared a selfie with the trophy before a parade, signaling his triumphant return.
The Celebrations Begin
At the airport, Pandya was among the first to display the trophy. Inside the Wankhede Stadium, he led the celebrations, showing the coveted trophy to thousands of waiting fans. Amid the chaos, the mood was celebratory. Fans cheered for all of India’s heroes, including Pandya, during an open bus ride and at the stadium.
Recognition and Respect
During Virat Kohli’s speech, cheers erupted when he mentioned Suryakumar Yadav’s catch off Pandya’s bowling. Fans acknowledged Pandya’s crucial role in the World Cup win. One fan noted, “The biggest turnaround happened when he was included. We could bat deep and had an extra bowling option.”
Overcoming Criticism
Pandya’s mental strength was highlighted by another fan: “He was booed in the first game here against CSK. But he didn’t retaliate; he kept his head down and worked hard. All the hate he got was unwarranted.” Fans have now embraced Pandya as the Mumbai Indians’ captain, celebrating his resilience and success.
A True Champion
Hyderabad-based Srinivas Reddy, a Bank of America employee, summed up the sentiment: “IPL is different from international cricket; it’s purely entertainment. I’m happy for him. He scored runs and took wickets at crucial times. We needed that Klaasen wicket in the final.”
Hardik Pandya’s journey from being an IPL ‘villain’ to a World Cup hero is a testament to his resilience and determination, earning him a place among India’s cricketing legends.(Dubai7 realmoneygame)