Dubai 28 August : India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has said that while a match against Pakistan is a unique game but his team will treat it as the other games of cricket.Sunday’s Group A match will see the return of the “greatest rivalry” in the history of cricket, which will be played at the Dubai International Stadium.It’s also the first time that the two teams meet India and Pakistan after a clash in the men’s T20 World Cup last year in the UAE in which Pakistan scored a stunning 10-wick victory against India in the Super 10 stage, their first win in the Men’s World Cups.
“All ready and prepared.It’s a special match (against Pakistan) but as players, we need to be focused on it just like any other game, and concentrate on the things we can control,” said Pandya in an interview prior to the game with broadcasters.
Since his return to the India T20I team in June, Pandya has put impactful all-round contributions that have tilted games in India’s favor.
“Obviously I am very happy and calm in my head.It’s not been the case that I don’t want to showcase what I’ve got however, it’s about being in an enviable place and doing my best.It’s never about proving something.In most cases If I do that, it will benefit my team.” said Pandya.
Pandya is participating in the Asia Cup match after being taken off the field in the 2018 edition.
He was later removed of the tournament because of an injury to his lower back that was acute.He said he was grateful to the team’s management for creating an extremely relaxed atmosphere in the team.
“I have been in and out of the team, but to witness the respect and appreciation they have shown me is amazing.This will help me perform better.It’s the type of mental state we are in is a lot more comfortable.”
“They do not wish to be under the burden of representing India They want to be their individuality.The management deserves credit for creating a team that is safer than any other team I’ve had the pleasure of playing with in the past.”
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