Tag: Hardik Pandya

  • ‘It’s A Big Setback’: Harbhajan Singh’s Blunt Remark After Hardik Pandya Was Removed As T20I Captain | cricket news

    Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was shocked when Hardik Pandya was removed from the captaincy role of India’s T20I squad. When Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from the shortest format of the game, Hardik was set to replace him as a skipper as he was the deputy lead during the T20 World Cup success in June. But then, the BCCI picked Suryakumar Yadav as the skipper of the Indian T20I team.

    “I was (surprised). Upto some extent, I was (disappointed). He was your vice-captain…when Rohit Sharma is not the captain, your vice-captain becomes the captain. But if you tell him on fitness ground that you will not be the captain – there’s no T20I cricket round the year,” Harbhajan told Sports Yaari.

    “He came after winning the T20 World Cup and suddenly, it’s a big setback for him. It’s not right. I have great respect for Suryakumar Yadav. Phenomenal player, great guy…very selfless. Even he wouldn’t have though that This would happen,” he added.

    Talking about India’s T20 squad for the Bangladesh series, the likes of Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma have been added to the side. Abhishek Sharma has also been picked in the side after missing out on Sri Lanka T20Is. The young guns Riyan Parag and Nitish Kumar Reddy are also set to show their finesse in the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh.

    India squad for Bangladesh T20 series: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, JItesh Sharma ( wk), Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav

    Bangladesh squad for India T20 series: Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmud Ullah, Litton Kumer Das, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hassan Miraz, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Rakibul Hasan.

  • Well Done, Buddy Says Hardik Pandya On Suryakumar Yadav’s Captaincy As Head Coach Gambhir Delivers Amazing Speech | cricket news

    Newly appointed India head coach Gautam Gambhir has kicked off his tenure with a commanding 3-0 T20I series victory over Sri Lanka. In his post-series address, Gambhir praised the team’s performance and particularly praised Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. The comments were highlighted in a video released by the BCCI on social media.

    Gambhir began his speech by extending congratulations to the team and captain Suryakumar Yadav. He emphasized the significance of their triumph, noting that their relentless effort and determination were key to their success. “Congratulations on a great series win. Special congratulations to Surya for his outstanding captaincy and his impressive performances with the bat,” Gambhir said. He acknowledged the team’s ability to fight hard for every delivery and run, which he believed was crucial to their series victory.

    The new head coach reflected on the game’s challenges and urged his players to continue improving their skills, especially in adapting to varied pitch conditions. He stressed the importance of assessing match situations quickly and understanding what constitutes a competitive score. “There’s a lot of learning from this series. We need to keep getting better, especially in handling different types of wickets,” Gambhir advised. He also set a clear expectation for the players to maintain high fitness levels in preparation for the upcoming series against Bangladesh.

    Gambhir concluded his speech with a call to action regarding fitness. He informed the players who would not participate in the 50-over format to use their break wisely and ensure they return in top condition. “Make sure that when you come back for the Bangladesh series, your fitness levels are at their peak. You don’t want to return thinking you can just turn up and perform without proper preparation,” Gambhir cautioned.

    Following Gambhir’s remarks, all-rounder Hardik Pandya took the floor to share his thoughts. Pandya echoed Gambhir’s praise for Suryakumar Yadav, highlighting his crucial role in both batting and captaincy. “First of all, well done! I think in batting first, we were challenged, and conditions were difficult, but I think after losing those early wickets Shubman (Gill) and Riyan (Parag) the way they batted and created the partnership was brilliant. When you speak about situational awareness, I think that point of time, what you both did was very, very important. And that gave us a platform to at least reach a decent total which our bowlers made sure bowl at the right areas. Especially, I always emphasize on the fact that the lower order has to come and chip in and I think Washi (Washington Sundar) and those 8 runs by Bishi (Ravi Bishnoi) were very important.”

    Head Coach Gautam Gambhir Hardik Pandya addresses the dressing room as the action now shifts to the ODIs in Colombo #TeamIndia | #SLvIND | @GautamGambhir | @hardikpandya7 pic.twitter.com/PFrTEVzdvd — BCCI (@BCCI) July 31, 2024

    “As Gauti bhai mentioned, Surya, well done on making sure that the way you rotated the bowlers, making sure, showing faith in the bowlers, which you gave in the last couple of overs. That was brilliant. And as a bowling group, obviously it was fantastic everyone chipped in, eventually it kind of takes us forward. done to all the guys who are playing ODIs, kill it!,” he said.

    India will now shift focus to the 3-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, though Suryakumar Yadav will not be part of this next leg of fixtures. The team’s preparation and performance in the ODI series will be crucial as they aim to build on their T20I success.

  • Big Blow For Sri Lanka Ahead Of T20 Series Against India As Their Highest Wicket-Taker Vs India Ruled Out Due To Injury- Details Here | cricket news

    In a major setback for Sri Lanka ahead of their three-match T20I series against India, star pacer Dushmantha Chameera has been ruled out due to an injury. Although the news has been circulating in Sri Lankan media, an official statement from the Sri Lanka Cricket Board is still awaited.

    Sri Lanka recently announced their squad for the T20I series, naming Charith Asalanka as captain following Wanindu Hasaranga’s resignation from the role due to a disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup. The squad also includes senior batsman Dinesh Chandimal, who was dropped for the T20 World Cup, while Dasun Shanaka has retained his spot. Notably, veteran Angelo Mathews has been excluded from the squad.

    India’s tour will feature three T20Is and as many ODIs. The Indian squad, announced with several surprises, will be led by Suryakumar Yadav instead of Hardik Pandya, who was vice-captain during the T20 World Cup. Pandya’s fitness issues were reportedly a key factor in his exclusion from the leadership role. The T20I squad sees the return of Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, and Axar Patel, alongside Pandya and Suryakumar. However, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Abhishek Sharma, who impressed in Zimbabwe, have been left out.

    The T20I series kicks off on July 27, with additional matches scheduled for July 28 and 30. The ODI series is set to begin on August 2.

    India’s T20 And ODI Squad For Srilanka Tour

    ODI Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshit Rana.

    T20I Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh, Riyan Parag, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi. , Arshdeep Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Mohd. Siraj.

  • Hardik Pandya’s Heartwarming Gesture At Airport; Hugs Fan Before Leaving For Sri Lanka, Video Goes Viral – Watch | cricket news

    Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder, continues to captivate fans both on and off the field. Known for his charisma and cricketing prowess, Pandya recently added another memorable moment to his repertoire. As Team India prepared to depart for their highly anticipated tour of Sri Lanka, Pandya was spotted sharing a heartfelt hug with a devoted fan at the airport, capturing the essence of his down-to-earth nature and deep connection with his admirers.

    Mumbai: Cricketer Hardik Pandya shares a warm hug with a fan as he arrives at the airport for his departure to Sri Lanka. pic.twitter.com/1U93wXFmW2

    — IANS (@ians_india) July 22, 2024

    Also Read: What Is Hardik Pandya’s Ex-Wife Natasa Stankovic’s Net Worth? In Pics

    The Sri Lanka Tour: A New Chapter

    India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first T20I on July 27 in Pallekele. This tour marks a significant chapter in Indian cricket as the team transitions into a new era. With Rohit Sharma announcing his retirement from T20Is, the leadership mantle has been passed to Suryakumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill as his deputy. Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir has taken the helm as the Head Coach, bringing a fresh perspective and strategic insight to the team.

    Hardik Pandya’s Crucial Role

    Hardik Pandya’s role in the squad remains crucial despite recent shifts in leadership positions. His performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 was nothing short of spectacular, especially his nerve-wracking final over against South Africa, where he successfully defended 16 runs to secure India’s victory. However, following the tournament, Pandya was stripped of his vice-captaincy in T20Is, raising questions and sparking discussions among fans and analysts alike.

    Selectors’ Doubts and Hardik’s Response

    Reports have surfaced suggesting that Gambhir and the selectors harbor doubts about Pandya’s tactical abilities and his capacity to deliver a full quota of overs in ODIs. This skepticism comes despite Pandya’s successful stint as the captain of Gujarat Titans, leading them to their maiden IPL title in 2022 and a runner-up finish in 2023. Unfortunately, his captaincy journey hit a rough patch in 2024, with Mumbai Indians finishing at the bottom of the IPL table.

    Selectors have opted for Shivam Dube over Pandya for the ODI series against Sri Lanka, questioning Pandya’s all-round capabilities. Dube, who has had limited bowling opportunities in recent matches, has been given the nod, pushing Pandya to prove his mettle in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. This decision underscores the intense competition and high standards expected of top-tier cricketers.

    The Emotional Airport Moment

    Amidst these professional challenges, Pandya’s interaction with his fan at the airport provided a poignant reminder of his human side. The video of Pandya embracing the young fan quickly went viral, showcasing his genuine appreciation for his supporters. This moment of warmth and humility resonated deeply with cricket enthusiasts, reaffirming Pandya’s status as not just a cricketing icon but also a beloved public figure.

    Moving Forward

    As the Indian team embarks on the Sri Lanka tour, all eyes will be on how the new leadership and team dynamics unfold. Pandya, despite the recent controversies and challenges, remains a vital asset to the team. His ability to perform under pressure and his knack for turning games around make him indispensable. The upcoming matches will also be a testament to Gambhir’s coaching strategies and the effectiveness of the new leadership duo of Yadav and Gill. Fans are eager to see how these changes translate on the field and whether India can maintain its winning momentum.

  • Hardik Pandya’s First Appearance Post Separation From Natasa Stankovic And Captaincy Snub | cricket news

    Hardik Pandya, the Indian all-rounder, made a public appearance in Mumbai on Saturday, focusing solely on fitness during the launch of his sports apparel brand. Despite recent personal and professional challenges, including his recent separation from Natasa Stankovic and missing out on the Indian T20 captaincy to Suryakumar Yadav, Pandya maintained a composed demeanor.

    Pandya and Stankovic, who have been married for four years, announced their separation just days before Pandya lost the captaincy bid for the T20 series against Sri Lanka. Although Pandya was seen smiling, it was evident that he was navigating a difficult period. The couple’s son, Agastya, will be co-parented moving forward.

    At the public event, Pandya chose to highlight his fitness philosophy rather than discuss his recent personal setbacks. He emphasized the mental fortitude required to push physical limits. “When our body does not get tired, our mind gets tired,” Pandya explained. He stressed that overcoming mental fatigue is crucial for physical achievements. “The difference between doing 20 reps and 25 reps is not just physical but mental,” he said.

    Hardik Pandya’s – pain speaks volumes through his eyes as he steps out after his #hardikpandya pic.twitter.com/Bc1RuF6TnD — Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani77) July 20, 2024

    Pandya’s focus on fitness is particularly poignant given the concerns about his physical condition that impacted his captaincy prospects. He reflected on his journey, noting how early dedication to training helped build a strong foundation. “I always wanted to be No. 1 in everything I did, so I trained hard from a young age,” he said.

    He also shared how his fitness journey evolved over time. “Initially, I bowled in the 130s, but with consistent training and increased knowledge, I pushed myself to bowl at 142,” Pandya recalled, highlighting his commitment to improving his physical performance.

    Looking ahead, Pandya will next be seen in action during the T20 series in Sri Lanka, where he will play under Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be leading the Indian team in ODIs, with Gautam Gambhir as the captain.

  • Natasa Stankovic Dating History: Before Hardik Pandya, Serbian Actress Dated A TV Actor | cricket news

    Cricketer Hardik Pandya and star actress Natasa Stankovic have confirmed their divorce which has the internet world upside down. People are curious about why the couple decided to separate after four years of marriage and also having a kid boy named Agastya. However, in this piece, we will take through Natasa Stankovic’s past relationship before she met Hardik Pandya.

    Before dating Pandya, Natasa was part of big reality shows including ‘Big Boss’ and ‘Nach Baliye’. Apart from this, she also made her Bollywood debut in Prakash Jha’s movie ‘Satyagraha’ in the year 2013. (Hardik Pandya Dating History: All Of India Cricketer’s Rumored Relationships Before Natasa Stankovic – In Pics)

    What more interesting is that, Natasa dated a TV actor before meeting Hardik Pandya whom she also participated in Nach Baliye season 9. However, as per reports, Aly Goni and Natasa’s relationship could last long after the show finished off.

    Hardik Pandya and Natasa Stankovic after four years of marriage announced separation. (Natasa Stankovic Shares First Picture Of ‘Home Sweet Home’ After Leaving Mumbai Amid Divorce Announcement With Hardik Pandya)

    “After four years of being together, Hardik and I have decided to mutually part ways. We tried our best together and gave it our all, and we believe this is in the best interest for both of us. This was a tough decision for us to make, given the joy, mutual respect, and companionship we enjoyed together and as we grew a family. We are blessed with Agastya, who will continue to be at the center of both our lives, and we will co-parent to ensure that. we give him everything that we can for his happiness. We sincerely request your support and understanding to give us privacy during this difficult and sensitive time,” read the statement posted by Natasa.

    While the separation marks a significant personal transition for both Natasa and Hardik, they remain interconnected through their commitment to Agastya. Natasa’s recent sighting at the Mumbai airport with her son underscores her dedication to family amid media scrutiny. Navigating this period with grace, her move to Serbia signifies a new chapter in her personal journey.

  • Hardik Pandya’s Wife Natasa Stankovic Faces Social Media Backlash After Announcing Divorce. cricket news

    In a recent turn of events, Natasa Stankovic and cricketer Hardik Pandya have officially announced their separation after months of speculation. The couple, known for their public persona and joint ventures, confirmed the news through a heartfelt joint statement on Thursday night. Despite their decision to part ways, they emphasized their commitment to co-parenting their 3-year-old son, Agastya, ensuring his happiness remains paramount.

    Also Read: EXPLAINED: How Much Could Hardik Pandya Lose From ₹91 Crore Net Worth Amid Divorce Rumors With Natasa Stankovic? IN PICS

    The Announcement and Public Reaction

    “After 4 years of being together, Hardik and I have decided to mutually part ways,” the statement read, underscoring the difficulty of their decision despite their shared joy and respect. The announcement sparked an immediate wave of reactions across social media platforms, with fans expressing a range of sentiments from empathy to disappointment. Despite Natasa disabling comments on her Instagram post, criticisms surfaced on other platforms, questioning the couple’s decision.

    Speculations and Viral Discussions

    Speculations regarding their separation began earlier this year when observant netizens noted changes in Natasa’s social media handles. A Reddit post titled “Natasa and Hardik separated?” further fueled public interest, with discussions extending to Natasa’s recent absence from IPL 2024 matches. These rumors gained momentum despite the couple’s efforts to maintain privacy.

    Moving Forward: Co-Parenting and Personal Choices

    While the separation marks a significant personal transition for both Natasa and Hardik, they remain interconnected through their commitment to Agastya. Natasa’s recent sighting at Mumbai airport, accompanied by her son, hints at her focus on family amid media scrutiny. As she navigates this period with grace, her relocation to Serbia signifies a new chapter in her personal journey.

  • Kohli and Hardik sing ‘Vande Mataram’ at Wankhede Stadium, video goes viral – Watch | Cricket News

    In a heart-stirring moment that echoed the euphoria of past cricketing triumphs, Wankhede Stadium reverberated with patriotic fervor as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and the entire Indian cricket team joined thousands of jubilant fans in singing ‘Vande Mataram’. This emotional rendition marked the pinnacle of their T20 World Cup victory celebrations, encapsulating a journey of resilience, camaraderie, and national pride.

    ____ _____ __ pic.twitter.com/j5D4nMMdF9

    — BCCI (@BCCI) July 4, 2024

    Also Read: Team India’s Homecoming: Mumbai Stages Perfect Welcome For T20 World Cup 2024 Champions – In Pics

    A Historic Homecoming

    The scene unfolded amidst the backdrop of India’s triumphant return from Barbados, where they clinched their second T20 World Cup title. After battling Hurricane Beryl and delays, the squad finally landed in Delhi before a tumultuous reception awaited them in Mumbai. Marine Drive became a sea of ​​blue as fans thronged to celebrate their heroes’ homecoming, setting the stage for an unforgettable parade to Wankhede.

    Echoes of 2011

    The moment evoked memories of the 2011 ODI World Cup final, where a similar chorus of ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ had fueled India’s historic victory. As Rohit Sharma and his men paraded the coveted trophy through Mumbai’s streets, the atmosphere mirrored the nation’s collective joy. For Virat Kohli, the only link between both World Cup triumphs, leading this rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ held profound significance.

    Unifying a Nation

    The power of sport to unify a diverse nation was palpable as players and fans alike shared in this emotional tribute. Amidst chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, the moment transcended cricket, symbolizing solidarity and pride. Hardik Pandya, known for his on-field exploits, struck a chord with his heartfelt rendition, underscoring the team’s bond beyond cricketing prowess.

    A Captivating Journey

    India’s journey to the T20 World Cup crown wasn’t just about victories on the field but also about resilience, determination, and unwavering support. From Rohit Sharma’s leadership to standout performances by emerging talents, each chapter of their campaign resonated with the nation. The BCCI’s announcement of a staggering INR 125 crore cash bonus highlighted the significance of this achievement in Indian cricketing history.

    Looking Forward

    As the celebrations continue and the spotlight shifts, Team India’s triumph will be etched in the annals of cricketing lore. Their rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ at Wankhede Stadium stands as a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and national pride that transcends boundaries.

  • Hardik Pandya Becomes World No. 1 T20I All-Rounder After Stellar T20 World Cup 2024 | Cricket News

    Hardik Pandya achieved another significant milestone in his career by becoming the new top-ranked T20I all-rounder globally after India clinched the T20 World Cup. His ascent to the summit, the first by an Indian all-rounder, followed a standout performance in the tournament finale against South Africa. Hardik’s stellar contributions included 144 runs and 11 wickets throughout the event, culminating in a pivotal role in the final where he claimed 3/20.

    His crucial dismissals of David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen propelled him up two spots in the rankings, displacing Wanindu Hasaranga to second place. This achievement marked a remarkable turnaround for Hardik, who had faced challenges earlier, including injury setbacks during the 2023 World Cup and a tough season with the Mumbai Indians.

    Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma in the T20 World Cup, Hardik’s fortunes reversed dramatically. His pivotal moments included a crucial wicket of Klaasen in the final, shifting momentum decisively in India’s favour. Facing a tense final over with 16 runs to defend, Hardik’s composure was evident as he dismissed Miller on the first ball, aided by a spectacular catch from Suryakumar Yadav.

    Hardik’s performance throughout the tournament showcased his prowess with the bat, boasting a strike-rate over 150, and with the ball, making critical breakthroughs when it mattered most. His contributions were pivotal in India’s journey to victory, culminating in an emotional celebration on the field.

    In addition to Hardik’s rise, there were notable movements in the T20I all-rounder rankings. Marcus Stoinis, Sikandar Raza, Shakib Al Hasan, and Liam Livingstone each advanced one position, while Mohammad Nabi saw a drop, falling out of the top five.

    Axar Patel In Top 13

    Axar Patel, another standout Indian performer, also made significant strides in the rankings, now sitting at 12th place. His contributions, including a vital 47 runs in the final and key wickets in crucial matches, earned him recognition and a seven-place jump in the rankings.

    Overall, India’s triumph in the T20 World Cup was underscored by Hardik Pandya’s exceptional all-round display, cementing his status as a leading figure in international T20 cricket.