IND vs ENG 2025: Hardik Pandya says he has ‘always played for the fans’

Hardik Pandya’s 40 from 35 deliveries in the third T20I against England drew criticism. But on Friday, January 31, in the fourth Twenty20 International at the Wankhede Stadium, the Baroda all-rounder made a spectacular comeback by hammering a crucial fifty.

When Hardik joined Shivam Dube at the crease in the eleventh over, India was in trouble at 79/5. India amassed a commanding 181/9 in their 20 overs thanks to the two all-rounders’ game-winning 87-run partnership off 45 balls. The Men in Blue took an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series, and England ultimately lost by 15 runs. With just 27 balls, Hardik achieved his fourth half-century in Twenty20 Internationals. After hitting four fours and as many sixes in his 30-ball 53, he was eventually removed.

The 31-year-old stated after his inspiring innings that he has always performed for the audience because they provide him with extra inspiration.

“I have performed for the audience my entire career. It provides me with extra motivation when they are present and chanting.

“I really want to do well for them at the same time,” Hardik Pandya stated in a video that the BCCI posted.

The Choryasi native added that he has benefited greatly from cricket, which keeps him sincere and devoted to the sport.

“There is not much waiting in this sport. The kiss is always returned by your first love. I feel like I always have to show up and be really honest and dedicated to the sport because it has given me so much love and so many things back,” he continued.

Hardik gave up 11 runs in just one over while bowling the new ball. Suryakumar Yadav didn’t throw him another over, but he had already had a significant effect and used the bat to win the match.