Rohit Sharma kisses Hardik Pandya after ‘unfair’ six months – Firstpost

Rohit Sharma shared an emotional moment with Hardik Pandya after India won the T20 World Cup title for the second time on Saturday (June 29).

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After the seven-run win, Indian captain Rohit kissed Pandya on the cheek while the all-rounder spoke to Nasser Hussain in the post-match reactions.

“It was very emotional, something was wrong, but it was something the whole nation wanted,” Pandya said after the match.

“Especially for me, after my six months, I didn’t say a word, things were unfair, but I knew there would be a moment when I could shine.

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“An opportunity like this makes it even more special,” said Pandya, who was the target of public anger during the Indian Premier League (IPL) after replacing Rohit as Mumbai Indians captain.

“We always believed in ourselves, we stayed calm and we let the pressure come. Last time I knew I had to execute my plans. I’ve been through this situation before, I enjoy the pressure,” he added.

With 16 runs needed off six balls, Pandya was tasked with defending the target – which he did without much trouble.

On the final bowling, Pandya said, “We always believed we could do it. It was just a matter of keeping calm and executing the plans. And let the pressure come on them. Credit to Jassie and the fast bowlers for the way they bowled the last four-five overs, it changed everything.

“I knew if I didn’t stay calm it wouldn’t help me. So, for me, it was easy to execute my plans and make sure that every ball I throw, I give it my hundred percent. I’ve been in this situation before, I may not have won but I always enjoy the pressure. Suddenly my acceleration speed increases. It’s been wonderful.

“I’m really happy for him. I really enjoyed working with him. Saying goodbye to him like that is how his coaching career ends. We had a very good relationship, we became friends. I am very excited and very happy for him,” Pandya said about Rahul Dravid’s world title signing.

Pandya also congratulated outgoing coach Rahul Dravid whose tenure ends after the tournament.

“Very happy for him, he’s a wonderful man, I really enjoyed working with him, to say goodbye like this is wonderful, I had a great relationship with him and became friends. Very happy for all the support staff,” said the all-rounder.