‘He is mentally strong in any situation’ – Rashid Khan reflects light on Hardik Pandya’s heroics

Rashid Khan and Hardik Pandya
Rashid Khan and Hardik Pandya. (Image Credits: Twitter)
Rashid Khan and Hardik Pandya
Rashid Khan and Hardik Pandya. (Image Credits: Twitter)

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been the talk of the town since putting in a commendable all-round performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2022 on Sunday (August 28).

The defending champions Team India opened their account on a good note by registering a five-wicket win over arch-rivals Pakistan, courtesy of Pandya’s heroics. The Baroda-based cricketer was at the top of his game on the special night.

With the ball, he picked up three important wickets of the opponents. Later, when the Men in Blue were under pressure while chasing the target, Pandya scored an unbeaten 33 off just 17 balls, including a six in the last over to take his team home. He was also adjudged the Player of the Match.

Also Read: Here’s why Jay Shah refused to hold national flag during India vs Pakistan

India missed Hardik Pandya in previous matches: Rashid Khan

Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan opened up on his IPL teammate Hardik Pandya’s impressive performance. He said that Hardik’s performance is a reflection of the hardwork he did during IPL 2022.

“Players like Hardik, Jadeja gives lots of balance to the team and reduces lots of headache of the captain. India missed Hardik Pandya alot in the previous matches. The hardwork he put on during the IPL helped him,” Rashid said in a press conference.

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The 23-year-old spinner also believes that Hardik likes to lead from the front and captaining Gujarat Titans has changed his mindset.

“Hardik Pandya likes to take responsibility, captaining Gujarat has changed his mindset a lot, he knows his strength, taking the game deep and bat through the innings – he is mentally strong in any situation,” he added.

Afghanistan won their first game against Sri Lanka in a comprehensive manner, and are all set to take on Bangladesh, who will be playing their first game of the continental tournament.

Also Read: ‘Best T20 all-rounder in the business’ – Ravi Shastri heaps praise on Hardik Pandya after heroics against Pakistan