After leading the Indian team to a 200-run victory over West Indies in the third ODI to clinch the series 2-1, Hardik Pandya openly questioned the arrangements made by the West Indies Cricket Board during their tour. Although he praised the newly hosted Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba as “one of the nicest” venues, he didn’t shy away from addressing the shortcomings faced by the Indian team during their time in the Caribbean.
Hardik Pandya voiced his concerns regarding the lack of “necessities” provided to the Indian team while touring the West Indies. He called on the West Indies Cricket Board to address these issues in the future to ensure the comfort and well-being of visiting teams. While he acknowledged enjoying the experience of playing cricket in the Caribbean, Hardik emphasized the importance of proper arrangements for the touring sides.
The Indian cricketers had previously expressed their displeasure to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after a delayed late-night flight from Trinidad to Barbados, resulting in the players being sleep-deprived ahead of the ODI series opener. The senior players had requested the BCCI to avoid late-night flights when there is little time between matches to allow sufficient rest for the players.
“This was one of the nicest grounds we have played. Things can be better when we come to West Indies next time, from travelling to managing many things. Last year also, some hiccups happened. I think it’s time for West Indies Cricket to take note of it and make sure that when a team travels. We don’t ask for luxury, but we need some necessities. Besides, I enjoyed coming here and playing some good cricket,” Hardik Pandya said on Tuesday.
Hardik Pandya’s outspoken nature was evident during the post-match presentation and on the field. When former West Indies spinner Samuel Badree questioned the pressure of potentially being the first Indian captain to lose an ODI series to West Indies in 17 years, Hardik responded with a cheeky remark, stating, “It’s okay. I like to be unique.”
In addition to his candid post-match comments, Hardik Pandya also played a crucial role with the bat in the third ODI. Coming in at No.5, he initially took his time and then launched an onslaught in the last five overs, propelling India’s total to 351/5 – the team’s highest ODI score in the Caribbean. His unbeaten 70 off 52 balls, which included five sixes and four boundaries, showcased his ability to accelerate the run rate and set a daunting target for the hosts.
“One minor injury, you will play IPL but not for India”: Kapil Dev’s Scathing Attack At Indian Star Player
India’s bowlers were equally impressive, led by Mukesh Kumar’s three early wickets and complemented by Kuldeep Yadav and Shardul Thakur’s tight bowling. The West Indies batting line-up struggled to cope with India’s bowling attack, leading to their dismissal for a paltry 151 in just 35.3 overs. The comprehensive victory marked India’s second-biggest win against the West Indies in terms of victory margin.
