Dubai 29 Aug : After the tense pursuit of the 148 required for India to beat Pakistan with five wickets in their opening game of Asia Cup 2022, all-rounder Hardik Pandya remarked that he would have preferred to win the match even the need for 15 runs from the last over. In the chase of 150 on a pitch that was two-paced, India were needing 59 runs from the last six overs.
Then, Pandya (33 not out off 17 balls) and Ravindra Jadeja (35) together made an innings of 52 runs in only 29 balls.
Although the left-handed Jadeja was beaten in the last over of left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz, Pandya finished off the game in fashion with a smooth six-over long-on to put India to victory and create a new exciting section in the story of India-Pakistan battles.
“When it comes to hitting my chances when I’m executing, I’m more likely to succeed when I’m in a calmer state.In an event like this you plan it over and over.I’ve always believed that there was one young bowler as well as a left-arm spinner.”
“I was aware that Nawaz was waiting to bowl.And while we were in need of 7 wickets, even if we required 15 I would have hoped to improve my chances.I feel that the bowler is under more pressure than I am in the last over.
I only had to get one six in the final over.I try to keep it easy,” said Pandya in the post-match ceremony to present awards.
The ball was also used, Pandya used his short ball to great effect and also got more bounce on a two-paced pitch .He was able to stop Pakistan’s innings midway with his run of 3-25, removing Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan and Khushdil Shah in the 11-15 overs.
“It’s crucial to be aware of the situation and utilize your arsenal.For me, bowling short has been my forte, and especially the hard lengths.However, you must make sure you use them in a responsible manner.It’s about using them correctly and asking the correct questions so that mistakes when batters make,” added Pandya.
Jadeja who played a significant part with the bat along with Pandya in winning the game for India and was in praise of the way in which the all-rounder managed to beat the chase.”We were determined to play to the end They have a excellent bowling attack, and their fast bowlers don’t let anything slip.”
“I could have played the whole game with a left-arm spinner against left-handed player but Hardik performed superbly.He (Pandya) was out and stated that he was planning to take his shots and was delighted that he stuck around until the very end.”
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