Hardik Pandya wants to win the World Cup for India 'no matter what happens'

While it is the first win for Gujarat, Hardik has already won four IPL titles before this – all for the Mumbai Indians.

"The four that I have won before this are equally special too. Winning IPL is always special. I consider myself very lucky that I have played five finals, and have lifted the trophy five times," Hardik said after the win.

"Obviously this will leave a legacy because we are a new franchise, playing for the first time, and we are champions in the first season. But the four that I have won before this were equally special."

With now five IPL title victories under his belt, the all-rounder now wants to focus on India's next big assignment.

"Absolutely to win the World Cup for India no matter what happens," he said. "I am going to give it everything I have. Always been that kind of guy, to put the team first. For me the goal will be simple: to make sure my team gets it the most."

India have come close to adding a World Cup trophy in their cabinet in the last 5-6 years but have fallen short on all occasions. During the 2016 T20 World Cup, India were beaten by the eventual champions West Indies in the semi-final of the tournament. In the 2017 Champions Trophy final, although Hardik was the highest run-scorer for his team, India succumbed to a huge defeat against Pakistan. Hardik's hitting in the 2019 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup semi-final could not get them over the line against New Zealand either.

This time the 28-year-old hopes he can give his all to ensure India get their hands on the coveted trophy, especially after his team's early exit in the previous edition.

"Playing for India has always been a kind of dream come true no matter how many games I have played. It has always been a pleasure for me to represent the country. The kind of love and support I have got it is only from the Indian team’s point of view.

"Long term, short term, I want to win the World Cup no matter what happens," he stressed.