T20 World Cup 2024: Hardik Pandya reaches USA, begins training session with Indian team

Following an undisclosed overseas vacation subsequent to the conclusion of Mumbai Indians' treacherous campaign, where they finished at the bottom of the heap under his leadership, Hardik Pandya, the deputy skipper of Team India for the T20 World Cup 2024, arrived in the US and was observed training alongside his teammates, ahead of their first and only warm-up fixture against Bangladesh, slated to take place on June 1, 2024.

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In a recent Instagram post shared by Hardik featuring a series of four images, he appeared focused and composed, sporting the practice jersey and sunglasses. The pictures captured him engaged in a team huddle and jogging alongside his teammates.

With the 20-over tournament looming, Hardik would be keen on stepping up his game, particularly after a somewhat disappointing IPL season, considering the lofty expectations he has on him. Across 14 IPL matches, the typically aggressive Hardik managed to accumulate a mere 216 runs. Similarly, his bowling performances were nothing to write about, with the pacer struggling to find his rhythm, claiming only 11 wickets in 14 games, while alarmingly travelling at an economy rate of 10.75.

Returning to the Mumbai Indians from the Gujarat Titans, where winning is the norm and immense pressure accompanies high expectations, might have placed significant pressure on Hardik to deliver. Furthermore, enduring constant criticism from fans, who frequently booed and jeered at him during matches, and facing relentless trolling on social media forums may have adversely affected his confidence and contributed to his sub-par outings during the 17th edition of the IPL.

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However, given the magnitude of the global event and India's drought in clinching the title since their initial victory in 2007, Hardik, now serving as vice-captain, will be driven to reclaim his peak form and excel on the field, prioritizing strong performances for the country over anything else.