'We don’t ask for luxury' - Hardik Pandya outbursts over Cricket West Indies for not having basic arrangements
Hardik expressed his dissatisfaction with the travel plans and other arrangements, saying that the Windies cricket body should take care of it.
Crickate
India's stand-in captain, Hardik Pandya, criticised West Indies Cricket for failing to make basic preparations for the visiting team. Notably, India led by Hardik won the series 2-1 after defeating the West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI on August 1.
Daren Ganga, a former cricketer-turned-commentator, asked Hardik about the accommodations at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, which hosted its first men's ODI, during the post-match presentation ceremony. Hardik responded by praising the stadium, labelling it "one of the nicest grounds on which we have played." However, the 29-year-old expressed his displeasure with the travel plans and other arrangements, urging the Windies cricket body to take heed.
This was one of the most beautiful venues we've played on. Next time we visit the West Indies, things may go more smoothly. From travelling to administering numerous responsibilities. Also in the previous year, difficulties occurred. I believe it's time for West Indies Cricket to take heed and ensure that when a team travels... We're not asking for luxury, but we do need our basic needs met. "Aside from that, I had a great time coming here and playing some good cricket," Hardik said.
You cannot become a legend without being able to handle pressure: Hardik Pandya
Hardik stated that the victory over the West Indies was particularly meaningful to him. In addition to praising his comrades, he stated that, as captain, he prefers high-pressure situations.
"It's a unique victory. Sincerity be told, I look forward to these types of situations as a captain where something is at stake. This was not merely an international match. We knew what was at risk and that if we lost, there would be great disappointment. The lads exhibited exemplary character. In high-pressure situations, it is essential to appreciate yourself as well. You cannot become a hero if you cannot handle duress," he continued.
The 29-year-old also commended the batsmen for setting up the match by scoring 351 runs while batting first, and he lauded his bowlers for concluding the game in the powerplay itself.
"350 points was always essential. When you have a score like that, batters pursue the ball, and if you're lucky, they'll hit it. Gill made several exceptional receptions. West Indies awoke very late, and that partnership extended the game to the 34th over. The game was effectively over during the power play, the 29-year-old concluded.
