Listen to Story Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra was impressed by Hardik Pandya's change in fortunes in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024. Aakash hailed Hardik's performances and pointed out how the crowd started cheering for him in New York after he received so many boos from the fans during IPL 2024. Hardik, the vice-captain of the Indian team, is truly an example of how sports can be a great leveller.
The star all-rounder faced a backlash as MI finished off at the bottom of the table under his captaincy. All eyes were on Hardik as to how he would step up for the Indian team in the blue jersey as he was making a comeback after a 9-month gap. Aakash hailed Hardik for turning the tide and making the hostile crowd and fans chant for him from the New York stands.
"Hardik Pandya - people booed him so much, and how life changes. I saw the entire ground shouting 'Hardik, Hardik' and a lot of love for him. Cricket is a great leveler.
If you perform well, people who were abusing you will also praise you. They will pray for your success," Aakash said on his YoTube channel. Hardik could not make much contribution with the bat against Pakistan as he contributed 7 runs to India's total of 119 runs.
However, he made a stellar comeback with the ball after conceding 18 runs in his first 2 overs. Hardik bowled next 2 crucial overs and managed to dismiss Fakhar Zaman with a bouncer and scalped the wicket of Shadab Khan in a similar fashion. T20 World Cup: Full Coverage | Complete Schedule A.