Hardik Pandya earned the ‘Impact Player’ medal for his standout fielding in India’s Asia Cup match against Oman on Friday. The all-rounder from Baroda showed off his skills with a spectacular catch that got rid of Oman’s opener Aamir Kaleem, who had smashed 64 runs off 46 balls and put real pressure on the Indian team.
It happened when Harshit Rana, back in the lineup after sitting out the first two games, delivered an off-cutter on the pads. Kaleem dropped to one knee to sweep the ball over deep third man, but he mistimed it. Pandya sprinted to the ropes and pulled off a stunning running catch right on the boundary.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of their post-match medal tradition. Head coach Gautam Gambhir had the team’s training assistant, Dayanand Garani, announce the winner to the squad.
In his acceptance speech, Pandya kept things upbeat. “We had a solid game today as a team,” he said. “We faced some tough tests—it was hot out there—but everyone stepped up and did their part. Tomorrow’s match on the 21st is just another one. Let’s focus when it’s time to play, not before. Good luck, guys.”
Pandya then dedicated the medal to Garani and his support staff, even putting it around Garani’s neck. “I want to give this to Daya from me,” he added. “You can keep it. This is for all the hard work you put into our fielding drills.”
India kicks off their Asia Cup Super Fours stage against rivals Pakistan next, followed by games versus Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The top two teams from the group will head to the final.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
