'The question of why we didn’t go is...' - Hardik Pandya gives witty reply on not going to Pakistan to play Champions Trophy 2025

India's star all-rounder, Hardik Pandya's, contribution with the bat and the ball in the Champions Trophy 2025 has been immense. He was one of the calmest people in pressure situations, which was evident from the way he played. After the win against New Zealand, he thanked the audience for their support and hoped that the Pakistani residents in Dubai would have enjoyed India's game. Moreover, he gave a quirky reply on why India didn't travel to Pakistan for the tournament. 

"This team enjoys each other’s company and success. It is not an individually driven team. It’s Team India. We all believe that everyone can finish the game or do something magical. I am sure Pakistani people living in Dubai must have enjoyed our performance. The question of why we didn’t go is way above my pay grade," said Hardik Pandya. 

In the final game, Rohit Sharma scored 76 runs and helped India get a good start to release the pressure off the other batters. For his outstanding performance, he was given the Player of the Match award. After the game, he clarified that he isn't retiring from the format anytime soon and would love to serve India for a few more years. 

I have always played cricket to win: Hardik Pandya

Whenever the situation has been tough, you can always see Hardik Pandya performing for the team. He spoke about the Indian team's performance and the mentality they carry whenever they play a game in any tournament. The winning mentality is something that has been instilled in the players and has helped them lately. 

"We have all come together for one goal; if you score zero, it doesn’t matter as long as the team is winning. I have always played cricket to win. This is not just a dialogue. I have always put the team above myself. It doesn’t matter if Hardik Pandya does well or not, but the team must do well. This mindset has helped me face hardships and taught me not to run away from challenges," added Hardik Pandya.