From 2017 heartbreak to 2025 triumph - Hardik Pandya opens up on a dream-come-true Champions Trophy glory
Hardik Pandya takes us through his emotions after finally lifting the Champions Trophy and reveals his dream of winning more titles for India.
In 2017, a young Hardik Pandya top scored for India with a blistering 76 off 43 balls, but his valiant effort fell short as India suffered a crushing 180-run defeat to Pakistan in the final.
Now a senior member of the team, Hardik was one of the few players from that squad to feature in this final. This time, he turned the script around beautifully, scoring a crucial 18 off 18 in the death overs to put the game firmly in India’s hands.
“2017, the work was left. You know I could not finish the job back then. And I am very very glad that tonight is the night where I can say that you know what, I am a champions trophy winner as well. So, sounds good I think.” Hardik said in a recent BCCI video.
He made it clear that he is far from done and is determined to win more trophies for India. With back-to-back triumphs, including last year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, he is eager to keep adding to his growing list of achievements.
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Looking back at a spectacular #ChampionsTrophy 2025.
“For me it has always been about winning as many championships as I can.
"I did say when we won in 2024 that this is not done, I still need 5-6 more trophies there. I am very happy that one more is added.
"The most important thing in my life and my cricketing journey has always been about how I can make sure that my team can win.”
He emphasized that the joy of stepping onto the field in blue is as strong as ever and that the victory feels even more special to him, as it was a true team effort with every player contributing to the success.
“And it's very very satisfying, very very calming, very very happy moment for me that every time I step on the field.
"You know, somehow even if I don't confirm that the team wins, I think that's the most beautiful feeling which I have.
"Everyone came out there and you know showed their class at the same point of time, the belief which they have.”
He has already set his sights on the next challenge - the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held in India.
With the tournament on home soil, India will not only have the advantage of familiar conditions but will also enter as the defending champions, aiming to continue their dominance on the global stage.
“I love wins like this where everyone comes there, puts their heart out and you know I think this was for India, this was for Bharat. The champions trophy is done, next goal ICC T20 World Cup in India, lifting the cup.”