GT vs SRH: Scared we might run out of luck by the time the main games, says Hardik Pandya
India Today
IPL 2022, GT vs SRH: Hardik Pandya was thrilled after a final-ball victory for Gujarat Titans against Sunrisers Hyderabad but said he was worried about too many close finishes for his team.
Hardik Pandya said he was scared luck might run out for his team by the business end of IPL 2022 after Gujarat Titans held their nerves to secure a last-ball win over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday.
Chasing 196, Gujarat Titans were 140 for 5 by the end of 16 overs after Umran Malik had taken his maiden five-wicket haul in the IPL. But Rahul Tewatia (40 not out) and Rashid Khan (31 not out) joined forces to help GT win off the final ball of the match.
Gujarat Titans are on top of the IPL 2022 points table and are inching closer to the playoffs, but Hardik Pandya joked he was worried with the tight games. In their previous match against Kolkata Knight Riders, GT survived an assault from Andre Russell to win by 8 runs and before that against defending champions Chennai Super Kings, GT were in a spot of bother again, but David Miller (94 not out) and Rashid (41 not out) handed them victory.
"I keep joking in the dressing room that God is telling us 'You guys are good, I'll help you'. It's happening so often that I fear we may run out of luck in the knockout games," Hardik told Star Sports.
Gujarat Titans have done well in their first season - after 8 matches, they have lost just one and are now the first team with 14 points. Hardik Pandya said the management ensured that the dressing-room atmosphere was relaxed.
"We keep a very chilled atmosphere and everyone is stepping up. We're ensuring that the players are backed well."
Hardik Pandya did not resume bowling duties in the match against SRH and said it was a calculated decision.