Hardik Pandya wants to win the World Cup for India
What's the story
Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya missed a lot of international action due to his injury in the Asia Cup 2018.
Fitness issues and controversy off the field impacted his performance.
But the star all-rounder is getting back to his groove.
In the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League, Pandya has been a genuine match-winner for Mumbai Indians.
And that bodes well for India.
World Cup
World Cup: Pandya is vital for the Indian team
The ICC World Cup 2019 is set to start from May 30 onwards in England and Wales and Pandya is key if India have to win the coveted tourney.
He is the side's main all-rounder and will be backed to make an impact during pivotal moments.
Pandya has been enjoying a good form in the IPL 2019 and that will help him remain confident.
IPL 2019
How has Pandya performed in the ongoing IPL?
In four matches so far, Pandya has scored 88 runs after coming on as a finisher.
Pandya's strike-rate of 204.65 tells us the complete story.
He has been instrumental for his team MI at the death.
On Wednesday, he smashed an unbeaten 25 off eight balls against Chennai Super Kings.
Pandya then followed it up with bowling figures of 3/20.
Goal
My goal is to keep performing, says Pandya
Pandya endured a rough time since Asia Cup 2018 but he has battled past that.
"These seven months weren't easy and I wasn't sure of what to do. This (MoM) award is special and I dedicate it to all those who stood by me during those tough times. My goal is to keep performing and hopefully, help India win the World Cup," he said.
Quote
Hard work has paid off for Pandya
"It feels really good to help the team win and to contribute to it. It's been seven months since I played much competitive cricket. Have batted and batted and batted in the nets. I am someone who loves to have game time," added Pandya.
Our take
Pandya is India's fulcrum going into the World Cup
India do not have the luxury of 2-3 all-rounders, who have similar capabilities like Pandya.
Therefore, the team needs him to be 100% ready.
India's expected back-up all-rounder is Vijay Shankar, who is more of a batsman.
Ravindra Jadeja is a bowling all-rounder and he isn't guaranteed of a berth.
Utility player Kedar Jadhav serves as the best bet to rally around Pandya.