Watch: Hardik Pandya wows crowd with one-handed catch during his welcome parade in Vadodara

Hardik Pandya waves the national flag during a roadshow to celebrate India's victory in T20 Men's cricket World Cup 2024, in Vadodara. (PTI Photo)

Hardik Pandya has not only reversed fortunes on the cricket field but also off it, turning jeers from IPL fans into cheers following his heroic performance at the T20 World Cup. Fans have gone to great lengths to catch his attention in imaginative ways.

During a victory lap at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium, a fan threw their T-shirt towards him. In Vadodara, where an open-top bus parade was held exclusively for Hardik Pandya, another fan threw a tennis ball at him, which he caught effortlessly with one hand, much to the delight of the crowd welcoming him warmly during his hometown roadshow.

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July 17, 2024

Hardik's brother, Krunal, also joined him during the roadshow.

At the T20 World Cup, Pandya excelled both with bat and ball, scoring 144 runs in six innings at an average of 48.00 and a strike rate of 151.57, including a half-century. He also claimed 11 wickets in eight matches at an average of 17.36 and an economy rate of 7.64, with best figures of 3/20.

India ended their 11-year ICC trophy drought with a thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa in the final at Barbados on June 29, where Virat Kohli (76), Hardik Pandya (3/20), Jasprit Bumrah (2/18), and Arshdeep Singh (2/20) played pivotal roles.

Reflecting on his journey, Hardik spoke about his transformation from struggling with injury during the 50-over World Cup last year to achieving victory in the T20 World Cup for the 'Men in Blue', showcasing his all-round performance.

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July 16, 2024

"It was a challenging journey after the injury in the 2023 Cup, but winning the T20 WC made it all worthwhile. Results follow effort. Hard work doesn't go unnoticed. Let's all strive for our best and focus on fitness," Pandya remarked.