'Knee got twisted, could not walk' - Yograj Singh heaps praise for Hardik Pandya's match-winning cameo against Australia

In an exciting Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final clash between India and Australia in Dubai, Hardik Pandya played a crucial role in securing India's place in the final with a match-winning cameo. Despite dealing with a twisted knee, the all-rounder delivered a crucial knock. Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh heaped huge praise on Pandya for his impactful performance.

Walking in at an important moment with 40 runs needed off 42 balls, Pandya was asked to deliver. As the required run rate climbed, he took control by smashing two crucial sixes in the 47th over, changing the momentum in India’s favour. His innings of 28 off 24 balls, featuring three sixes and a four, played a crucial role in the Men in Blue's successful chase.

Despite his effort, Hardik Pandya departed in the 48th over, falling just short of seeing the chase through. However, Singh emphasized the importance of backing players who put their bodies on the line for the team.

"Cricket is a religion in our country. When these players, who give their blood and sweat for us, when they fall, pick them up, when they feel sad, console them; when they cannot walk, then lift them on your shoulders. Hardik's knee was twisted. He could not walk, but still, he took the match on the winning side. People should learn from this. People should be positive, irrespective of win or loss. If you keep talking down on a player, he goes down forever. Hardik Pandya's knee got twisted today," Yograj was quoted as saying by Lokmat Times.

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I feel sad because that shot was unnecessary: Yograj Singh

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli’s brilliance with the bat once again got India through while chasing. The Delhi-born hit an 84-run inning, guiding the side from 43/2 to within reach distance of the target.

Yograj spoke highly of Kohli’s performance but also pointed out his unnecessary dismissal, believing that the batting stalwart could have finished the game himself. Team India’s victory over Australia means they will now face South Africa or New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final. The former cricketer predicted the side will take on Kiwis in the summit clash.

"Virat is a match-winner. But I feel sad because that shot was unnecessary. He should have finished the match. He is like a son to me. He could have done a century and had India lost, it would have been wasted. He changed the game today. I would like to say this to people who criticise Virat, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, that they should stop, become your child's support so that we keep make progress," the former India cricketer continued.

"India is in the finals today. The final will be between New Zealand and India and India will win," Yograj concluded.