Texted Virat 'I wish no one goes through back surgery': Hardik Pandya on injury

The last few months have been nothing less than forgettable for Hardik Pandya. Barring his engagement to Natasa Stankovic, nothing much has gone the allrounder’s way since the end of the World Cup. After impressing in the IPL and the World Cup, Hardik Pandya must have hoped to establish himself as one of the best allrounders in the world.

However, his problematic back injury has dashed his hopes so far. Hardik Pandya has not played since the T20I series against South Africa at home. In October, he had to undergo surgery to deal with the issue in the back that first cropped up during the 2018 Asia Cup. And Pandya has now opened up about that tough experience.

In a recent interview with India Today, he spoke about the mental and physical challenges he faced while being on medication after the surgery. He revealed how he talked to skipper Virat Kohli and said that he hoped no one else goes through that experience.

“I had a word with Virat. He just dropped a message, asking me how I am (after the surgery). I replied ‘I am good but I just wish that no one in the world goes through a back surgery’. I was obviously in meds and all and it was emotionally challenging as well,” revealed Pandya.

Hardik Pandya speaks on the rehabilitation period

Hardik Pandya also opened up on his rehabilitation period. The India star said he needed help even to take a step but his family was always there to make sure he was strong both mentally and physically. He pointed out the likes of his brother Krunal, his sister-in-law and girlfriend as he revealed how they helped him during the tough time.

“From lifting 100 kg I went to not being able to lift my leg. I was not able to walk without the help of my sister in law or my very close friend who was there in London to help me. Getting up is a different thing, I was not able to change my position. From there to see myself running and starting to bowl and starting to hit. This was my first injury otherwise I was always positive.

“I am lucky that way because I have 6, 7 people in my team who literally make sure I am on the right track. So Krunal is one, Pankhuri (sister-in-law) is one, my girlfriend Natasa is there, my manager Vivan is there. They are all there to support me and make sure mentally and physically, I am alright,” said Pandya.