The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, Mar 12 ,2025 : In 2017, a young Hardik Pandya gave India a glimmer of hope in the Champions Trophy final with a fiery 76 off 43 balls, standing tall even as India suffered a crushing 180-run defeat to Pakistan. His lone fight ended in heartbreak, leaving an unfinished chapter in his career.
Eight years later, Pandya made sure history didn’t repeat itself. Now a senior member of Team India, he played a calm and composed knock of 18 off 18 balls, guiding India to a historic Champions Trophy victory in 2025.
“In 2017, the job was left incomplete. I couldn’t finish it back then,” Pandya reflected after the win. “Tonight, I can finally say—I am a Champions Trophy winner.”
With India securing back-to-back ICC titles, including the 2024 T20 World Cup, Pandya is determined to keep adding silverware to his growing collection.
“For me, it’s always been about winning as many championships as possible,” he said. “When we won in 2024, I knew I wasn’t done yet. I still want five or six more trophies. I’m thrilled to add one more.”
He credited the team’s collective effort, emphasizing that every player rose to the occasion when it mattered most.
“It’s an incredibly satisfying, peaceful, and proud moment for me. Every time I step on the field, I play to win—but more than that, I play for the joy of the game,” he shared. “Every player showed their class, their belief, and their determination.”
With the Champions Trophy secured, Pandya has already set his sights on the next big challenge—the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India. The home tournament presents an opportunity for India to defend its title and extend its dominance in familiar conditions.
“I love these victories, where the entire team gives their all,” Pandya said. “This one was for India, for Bharat. The Champions Trophy is done—next goal, the ICC T20 World Cup at home, lifting that trophy.”
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