Hardik Pandya sets date for return
Pandya last played for India during the South Africa T20Is in September, and underwent surgery for a back complaint in October. The back issue has been a long-standing one, keeping him in and out of the team since mid-2018.
"I was managing the back, tried everything possible not to get into surgery," he told IANS on Tuesday, 10 December. "After trying everything, we came to the conclusion that it wasn't working. I noticed that I was not able to give my 100% and that meant I was not doing justice to myself and the team. That is when I decided to go for the surgery."
Pandya explained that his surgery was timed to enable him to be in best shape for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia.
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"We thought this was the right time because even if I take four months, I will be coming back before the New Zealand series, mid-way actually," he said. "That was the plan that I play some international games, the IPL and then the World T20. The biggest concern was the World T20 which touch wood is now in place."
The big-hitting all-rounder, who strikes at 147.61 in T20Is, said staying positive was the biggest challenge. He took inspiration from Australia's Pat Cummins and India's Jasprit Bumrah to stay motivated to make his comeback.
"It is not easy to keep coming back as you need motivation," he said. "You need to be sure that you do not go down the wrong path. You don't question yourself [asking] why is it happening to you. I try and back myself and stay positive. I have understood that every comeback gives me an edge and makes me stronger. I want people to say I learnt something when I was away due to injury.
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"I have seen Pat Cummins coming back from injury being stronger than before. I have seen Jasprit Bumrah having a knee surgery and coming back and be what he is right now. I have seen cricketers come back from bad injuries and surgeries and I have spoken to them and learnt that patience is very important.
"After a knife touches your body, it becomes fragile. So, you have to give 200% while making the return."
