IPL 2022: Not thinking about India, my focus on IPL now – Hardik Pandya

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has stated that he is currently not thinking about a comeback to the Indian team and his focus is on the ongoing IPL. Pandya has been leading from the front as Gujarat Titans are at the top of the points table with six wins from seven matches.

The right-hander scored a fine knock of 67 runs off just 49 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai on Saturday and played a key role in the eight-run victory against the opponent. Pandya is currently the second-highest run-getter in the ongoing season as he has amassed 295 runs in six matches at an average of 73.75 and a strike rate of 136.57.

Furthermore, Pandya has scalped four wickets in six matches and he has bowled consistently above 140 km/h in the ongoing season. Pandya said he wants to take one step at a time and his focus is to do well for Gujarat Titans.

“I don’t think it’s my (India) comeback anyway and secondly, I don’t focus on my comeback. I focus on the game which I play,” Pandya said at the post-match media conference

“At the moment, I am playing IPL and will focus on IPL, and then I will see where the future takes. It’s never in my hands now. I focus on the team in which I’m playing in. We are doing well and I’m very happy,” he added.

On the other hand, Hardik Pandya is leading Gujarat Titans with aplomb and he stated that he is a player who excels with responsibility on his shoulder. Pandya revealed he has a good understanding of the game, which helps him get the best out of himself.

“Captaincy obviously helps. I’m always a cricketer who loves to take responsibility. I have a bit of understanding of the game having batted for so many years,” he said.

“You’re successful because you have an understanding of the game. Having played so many matches, I’m able to use my experience. So far, so good,” he added.

GT will next take on SRH at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Wednesday.