XtraTime Web Desk: Hardik Pandya, India’s star all-rounder is all fit to take IPL 2020 by storm. Coming from a lengthy injury layoff, Hardik is motivated to good in this year’s IPL. It’s safe to say that Hardik is physically as well as mentally ready for IPL which is starting on September 19.
Pandya is a very important member of Mumbai Indians squad. His form will be very crucial for Mumbai to defend their title. Mumbai Indians will have their first match against Chennai Super Kings in this cash-rich T20 league.
“The way I’m hitting the ball right now, the shape I’m in, the mental space I’m in, it is just a matter of time that I go and spend some time on the ground and I think things will come out pretty well,” Pandya said in a video posted by Mumbai Indians’ official Twitter handle.
“No matter how far I go from the game, no matter how long I stay out, when I come back, it has to be worth it. I have prepared very well and I think, great things are coming ahead,” the 26-year-old flamboyant all-rounder added.
Last year in November, Pandya had undergone a back surgery in London. He came back in the DY Patil T20 tournament held in early March.
He was even selected for the ODI series against South Africa, but the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the rubber to be abandoned, delayed his return. He is now looking forward to the IPL.
“IPL is something that I have enjoyed a lot and I would like to make a comeback very strong and I’m just looking forward to it,” said Pandya.
He also conceded that injuries would be a part of his cricketing journey and motivate him to do better.
“In my life I have realised one thing that injuries would be with me. No one wants to get injured, but I accept the fact that what I do, injuries would be a part of it.
“Injuries have always kept me going, always kept me motivated. Actually taught me how much I have to put in the hard yards and the hard work has always increased, never decreased,” said the Baroda all-rounder.
Pandya also threw light on how he maintained his fitness during the lockdown.
“Luckily, me and (my brother) Krunal (Pandya) had the privilege to have a gym in our house. So because of that portion, we were able to work on our fitness…,” he said.