T20 World Cup 2022: Hardik Pandya breaks down after nerve-wracking win over Pakistan, recalls father's struggles

India edged past eternal rivals Pakistan in a humdinger of a contest in front of a jam-packed MCG on the 23rd of October. While former Indian skipper Virat Kohli stole the show with one of the best T20I innings ever, Hardik Pandya's all-around efforts were crucial for India's thrilling victory. The all-rounder was visibly shaken and in tears in a post-match interview while talking about his late father.

India's young left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh put India ahead after dismissing two of Pakistan's best batters, Babar Azam and Mohamad Rizwan, in his opening two overs. However, the Men in Green hit back with a counter-attacking partnership, largely due to Iftikhar Ahmed's half-century. But India took control of the game after Hardik snaffled three quick wickets in the middle overs, ending with 3/30 in his four overs.

Pandya then came to the rescue for Rohit Sharma's side after India were reeling at 31/4. His 113-run stand with Virat Kohli turned the game on its head and brought India to the brink of victory. Although he was dismissed in the final over with India still needing 16 runs, Kohli ensured India's victory in a dramatic final over. Pandya was seen with tears in his eyes talking about his father during the post-match celebrations. 

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Hardik Pandya in tears while speaking about his father. pic.twitter.com/kWjLqzfOf9

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It is worth noting that Pandya rose to fame after humble beginnings in his early days. Hailing from a small village in Surat, Pandya's father saw Pandya's talent at a young age and decided to move to Vadodra, shutting down his small business in Surat. Hardik along with his elder brother Krunal, who has also represented the Indian team, grew immensely under the watchful eyes of former Indian cricketer Kiran More.