“I Don’t Mind Losing To Him”: Hardik Pandya’s Heartfelt Tribute to Guru MS Dhoni

Ahmedabad: Despite the loss at the hands of CSK in the IPL 2023 final, GT skipper Hardik Pandya expressed his pride in his team’s performance and stated that if they had to lose the title, he would prefer losing it to CSK captain MS Dhoni.

The match, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, witnessed a grandstand finish by CSK’s Ravindra Jadeja, who hit a six and a four in the last two balls to secure a five-wicket victory for his team and their fifth IPL title.

Jadeja’s outstanding knock of 15* off 6 balls was supported by contributions from Devon Conway (47 off 25), Ruturaj Gaikwad (26 off 16), Shivam Dube (32* off 21), Ajinkya Rahane (27 off 13), and Ambati Rayudu (19 off 8), enabling CSK to chase down 171 runs from 15 overs in a rain-shortened final.

Reflecting on the match, Pandya acknowledged the destiny of MS Dhoni winning the title and praised his character, referring to him as one of the best individuals he knows. Pandya stated, “I’m very happy for him (MS Dhoni), destiny had this written. If I had to lose, I’d rather lose to him. Good things happen to good people, and he’s been one of the best people I know. God has been kind, God has been kind to me as well but today was his night,” during the post-match presentation.

Pandya also commended GT batsman Sai Sudharsan for his remarkable innings of 96 runs off 47 balls, which played a crucial role in helping GT set a massive total of 214/4. Sudharsan received support from Wriddhiman Saha (54 off 39) and Shubman Gill (39 off 20). Despite the rain-shortened match, Pandya expressed pride in his team’s performance, emphasizing their fighting spirit and teamwork. He acknowledged CSK’s superior cricket on the day and highlighted the exceptional performances of his teammates, including Mohit, Rashid, and Shami, who stepped up and delivered when needed.

“Our team ticks many boxes. We play with immense heart, and I’m really proud of the way we kept fighting. We have a motto – we win together, we lose together. I won’t make excuses; CSK played better cricket. Our batting was exceptional, and I want to give a special mention to Sai (Sudharsan) as it’s not easy to perform at this level. We have been supporting our players and striving to bring out their best. Their success belongs to them. The way they stepped up and delivered – Mohit, Rashid, Shami, everyone,” Pandya said.

Despite the defeat, Pandya’s words conveyed his admiration for MS Dhoni and the CSK team, while also recognizing the efforts and accomplishments of his own team, the GT.