Cricket

Hardik Pandya lauds KL Rahul, says nobody hits the ball the way he hits after Champions Trophy triumph

India’s all-rounder Hardik Pandya hailed KL Rahul after the Men in Blue registered a four-wicket win against New Zealand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday. Rahul scored a crucial knock of 34 runs off 33 balls in the summit clash and added the finishing touches in the run-chase of 252.

Pandya and Rahul added a crucial alliance of 38 runs to take India close to the target. The Indian all-rounder scored a run-a-ball 18 in the run-chase.

Meanwhile, Rahul was able to show all the composure while batting at number six. The flamboyant batter had also scored 42 runs off 34 balls in the semifinal clash against Australia. Rahul scored a total of 140 runs in four innings at an average of 140 and a strike rate of 97.90 in the eight-team tournament.

Hardik Pandya said after the win, “Brilliant, calm, composed, took his chances at the right times. I think this is what KL Rahul is. KL Rahul has immense talent, I don’t think anyone can hit the ball the way he can. That was an exhibition of how he did today.”

Pandya recalled that they could not get the job done in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against Pakistan but was delighted to get across the line on Sunday.

Pandya added, “It’s always amazing to win an ICC event, especially the Champions Trophy. I remember 2017 very closely to my heart. We couldn’t finish the job that time. Pleased with how we have played everyone throughout the tournament, and how everyone contributed.”

On the other hand, Shubman Gill shared his delight after India lifted the Champions Trophy. Gill said he was enjoying Rohit Sharma’s batting from the other end.

He added, “Felt amazing, for the most part, I was sitting back and enjoying Rohit bhai’s batting. We kept talking to each other and the partnership was very important for us. He told me it doesn’t matter how many balls you are behind, just keep looking at the scoreboard and you have to play till the end. Definitely very satisfying, we missed out on the last one that we played in 2023.”

Indian players will be seen playing in the IPL.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
शेयर
द्वारा प्रकाशित
DafaNews

हाल के पोस्ट

Rahmanullah Gurbaz reveals how Virat Kohli helps him when he is in trouble

Afghanistan wicket-keeper bat Rahmanullah Gurbaz has revealed that Virat Kohli is always ready to help… अधिक पढ़ें

December 2, 2025

Harshit Rana says he is not bothered by outside noise ahead of 2nd ODI against South Africa

India’s fast bowler Harshit Rana said he is not bothered by the outside noise ahead… अधिक पढ़ें

December 2, 2025

India vs South Africa, 2nd ODI – Match Preview

India would look to take an impregnable lead of 2-0 in the three-match series when… अधिक पढ़ें

December 2, 2025

Arteta urges fans to support ‘like animals’ ahead of clash against Brentford

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has urged the club’s fans to support the team like… अधिक पढ़ें

December 2, 2025

Calvin Betton slams ATP for being obsessed with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, calls it pathetic

Top doubles coach Calvin Betton has slammed ATP for being obsessed with Carlos Alcaraz and… अधिक पढ़ें

December 2, 2025

Luka Doncic takes blame for Lakers’ loss to Suns, says no way he can have nine turnovers

Los Angeles Lakers talisman Luka Doncic took the blame for the 125-108 loss to the… अधिक पढ़ें

December 2, 2025