After one of the most thrilling turnarounds against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup, Hardik Pandya opted for a casual chat with journalists at the MCG, sitting on the press room floor. This wasn’t a formal press conference but rather an ICC initiative to promote relaxed and heartfelt interactions between players and the media during World Cups. In such a setting, players often let their guard down, sharing genuine thoughts without the pressure of cameras.
During this interaction, Hardik made a striking comment about transcending outcomes and conquering the fear of failure. He insisted he would have felt the same even if India had lost, emphasizing the team’s hard work and unity. “Even with three balls left, I told the boys, ‘Even if we lose the game, it’s okay.’ I was proud of our fight and effort. We gave it everything,” Hardik stated. This mindset, he explained, helped him accept both the highs and lows of the sport, valuing the lessons from failures.
This approach to sports, where one strives to perform without fear of results, is ideal but rare. It’s akin to the impossible balance George Costanza humorously questions in Seinfeld’s “The Deal” episode. Achieving such equilibrium in sports, where one cares deeply yet plays freely, is a mark of the greatest athletes.
Hardik’s journey, however, was far from smooth. Injuries plagued him, especially during a promising ODI World Cup campaign where he hurt himself again. The details are vague, but a fallout with Mumbai Indians left him unwanted by any team. Booed by crowds and struggling with his bowling, Hardik’s career seemed in jeopardy. Yet, India’s bowling coach Paras Mhambrey noted that the team management kept a close eye on him, ensuring he followed rigorous training and practice.
Hardik’s fortunes turned during the T20 World Cup. Supported by a strong team, he didn’t have to shoulder all the pressure. He began taking crucial wickets and scoring necessary runs, notably against Ireland and Pakistan. Entering the final, he looked every bit the hero, poised and focused.
The final game saw him teaming up with Jasprit Bumrah in a dramatic finish. Despite a tough start, Hardik managed to get key wickets and maintain tight control, keeping South Africa at bay. His team-mate Suryakumar Yadav’s stunning catch in the final over sealed the victory, with Hardik defending the remaining runs.
Reflecting on his journey, a visibly emotional Hardik spoke to Star Sports, recalling the tough six months he endured. He admitted to wanting to cry but refrained to avoid giving satisfaction to those who reveled in his struggles. His resilience paid off, leading India to triumph in the World Cup final.
This story highlights the unpredictability of cricket, where no feeling is final until retirement. Even post-retirement, one can achieve milestones, as Rahul Dravid did. The key is to stay fit, resilient, and rise above outcomes, cherishing both victories and the lessons from setbacks.
