The year 2024 proved to be a significant one for Hardik Pandya. From facing criticism from the Mumbai Indians supporters to leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup, and subsequently losing the captaincy, Hardik's journey can aptly be described as a 'roller-coaster ride.' Nevertheless, he continues to perform admirably, contributing runs and taking wickets, always ready to support his team when required. Hardik has previously navigated challenging phases in his career, including a stress fracture in his back that necessitated surgery and an ankle injury that sidelined him from the 2023 World Cup. Despite these obstacles, he has risen above them, reaffirming his status as India's premier all-rounder over the years.

Throughout his nine-year career, Hardik has experienced numerous unforgettable moments, yet none surpass the events of June 29, 2024. Under immense pressure, he delivered two pivotal overs that transformed him from a national scapegoat into a cherished hero. While Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah rightfully received accolades for their performances in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, the victory would not have been achievable without Hardik's crucial 17th and 20th overs.

The image of Hardik collapsing to the ground in tears after successfully defending 16 runs in the final over, thus ending India's long wait for an ICC title, is unforgettable. This moment was particularly poignant given the challenging months he endured while captaining the Mumbai Indians.

"We won as a team. But for me to play that much important role, it is just surreal. And it’s a dream which actually came true. From my shoulder, a big weight was kind of off. I think it was just a relief. Really proud of the way I was able to stand, and maybe not show a lot of emotions or how I have been going through," Hardik expressed in an interview with the ICC.

That ball to dismiss Klaasen

The discussion surrounding the T20 World Cup final would be incomplete without highlighting Hardik's pivotal 17th over, which significantly altered the course of the match in favor of India. Heinrich Klaasen had been dominating the Indian bowlers, having recently scored 22 runs off Kuldeep Yadav in the preceding over. A decisive moment was imminent; it was a critical juncture.

Captain Rohit Sharma entrusted the ball to Hardik, and with just one delivery, the dynamics of the game transformed. Klaasen edged the ball to Rishabh Pant, marking a turning point. South Africa, despite being in a strong position, faltered in their pursuit of the remaining 24 runs required from 18 balls. While Bumrah contributed to the effort, the defining moment belonged solely to Hardik.

"Prior to the delivery, I informed Rohit that I intended to bowl wide to Klaasen, anticipating that he would expect a delivery targeting the stumps. His stance was slightly leg-side, leading me to believe he would attempt to hit me in that direction. Just before my run-up, I decided to bowl a slower ball without having set a field for it. I needed to outsmart him, keeping him uncertain about the type of delivery coming his way, especially given his impressive hitting. That decision ultimately opened the door for us," Hardik reflected.

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