'The players are prepared' - Hardik Pandya confident of India's chances against Pakistan

The Indian team led by mercurial skipper Rohit Sharma has opted to bowl first in the most anticipated clash of the Asia Cup so far against arch-rivals Pasktian at the Dubai Internation Stadium on the 28th of August, Sunday. One of the key performers for the Indian team, Hardik Pandya, gave his views ahead of the blockbuster clash, post the toss.

The Men in Blue take to the field with redemption on their minds of last year’s ten-wicket drubbing against the same opposition in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Indian all-rounder and the indispensable Hardik Pandya has been in the form of his life and is arguably India’s most important player on the team, given his resurgence as a seam bowler after recovering from a lengthy injury lay-off earlier this year.

The 2022 IPL winning skipper gave his thoughts on the high-voltage clash, dubbing it as a special game for the players. He stated that the players are prepared for the occasion and are focused, just like any other game. He also revealed his mindset heading into the game and lauded the team for displaying incredible respect and value towards him.

“We have prepared well, it is a special game, but as players, we have to focus on it as any other game. It has never been the case that I wouldn’t want to show what I have, but it is about being in a peaceful place and performing. It is never about proving a point. I have been in and out of the team, but to see the respect and value they have given me is incredible,” Pandya said in an interview post the toss.

Hardik Pandya credits the team management leading up to the game against Pakistan

Hardik reckoned that the players in the team are relaxed and looking to express their game on the field. He applauded the management for creating a conducive environment for their players, where they don’t feel the pressure.

“In the kind of mindset we are coming from, the players are much more relaxed. They don’t want to feel the pressure of playing for India, they just want to express themselves. Credit to the management for making this team much more secure than I have ever played with in the past,” the Indian star added.