Flamboyant all-rounder Hardik Pandya took a sabbatical from cricket, which he took after the 2021 T20 World Cup, to work on his fitness. Pandya made himself unavailable for selection after India’s early exit from the T20 World Cup. The 28-year-old, who faced a lot of criticism during the tournament due to his bowling fitness, worked hard in the breaks to regain his fitness. During his break, Pandya was released by Mumbai Indians and new franchise Gujarat Titans signed him and appointed him as their captain.
Pandya said the break helped him in self-realization and he got answers to tough questions during that time.
“I was just spending time with family, working hard as always. (I) am making sure I prepare well. For me, it was time to self-actualize what I wanted and what would work for me next and during this time I got this answer,” Hardik told the IPL website.
The 28-year-old said that he wants to return to the field with a positive mindset and will focus on taking care of his body and ensuring Gujarat Titans win matches.
“I don’t think it will be my comeback or what I am focusing on. For me, right now I just want to be in a positive mindset and I’m not looking forward, I’m just focusing on those things.” I am the one who is in control, who is taking care of my body and leading my team to victory.”
Pandya further admitted that if he does well with his new franchise, it is going to help him regain his place in the Indian team.
“Ultimately if I do things right for Gujarat Titans in the IPL, things will fall for the foreseeable future as well. I am only a work in progress right now but for me, what will be important is that I will always be available to the players, no matter what time and day. I want to give security and freedom to the players.”
The Gujarat Titans captain further made a bold claim that results don’t matter to him as he feels that hard work is not a guarantee of success.
“I am looking forward to this IPL as I have been away from the game for a long time. For me, it is very exciting, I will get to see where I really am after three months of hard work behind closed doors.”
“Results don’t matter because I have learned that hard work doesn’t guarantee you success but the right process will ultimately bring you success.”
He further expressed his gratitude towards his former franchise Mumbai Indians, for which he played from 2015 to 2021 and won four IPL trophies.
“I am very grateful to Mumbai Indians. I played international cricket because of Mumbai Indians. I have achieved a lot and it was close to my heart but now I am looking for new opportunities.”
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