New Delhi, Mar 12 (UNI) In 2017, a young Hardik Pandya lit up the Champions Trophy final with a blistering 76 off 43 balls, a lone warrior in India’s crushing 180-run defeat to Pakistan.
His valiant effort was in vain, leaving an unfinished chapter in his career.
Eight years later, on the same grand stage, Pandya ensured there would be no repeat of that heartbreak. Now a senior figure in the Indian squad, he played a crucial role in the closing stages, scoring a composed 18 off 18 balls to guide India to a triumphant Champions Trophy victory in 2025.
“2017, the work was left. You know I could not finish the job back then,” Pandya reflected after the win. “And I am very, very glad that tonight is the night where I can say that, you know what, I am a Champions Trophy winner as well.”
With India securing back-to-back ICC titles, including last year’s T20 World Cup, Pandya is eager to keep adding to his growing list of achievements.
“For me, it has always been about winning as many championships as I can,” he said. “I did say when we won in 2024 that this is not done. I still need five or six more trophies. I am very happy that one more is added.”
The victory, he emphasized, was a true team effort, with every player stepping up when it mattered most.
“It’s very satisfying, very calming, a very happy moment for me. Every time I step on the field, even if I don’t confirm the win, I think that’s the most beautiful feeling I have,” he said. “Everyone came out there and showed their class, the belief they have.”
With the Champions Trophy secured, Pandya has already turned his focus to the next major challenge—the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in India. The tournament on home soil presents an opportunity for India to continue its dominance and defend its title in familiar conditions.
“I love wins like this where everyone puts their heart out,” he said. “This was for India, this was for Bharat. The Champions Trophy is done—next goal, ICC T20 World Cup in India, lifting the cup.”
With a relentless hunger for success, Pandya’s redemption arc is complete—but his journey is far from over.
