ABU DHABI, Sept 16: Back from a lengthy injury layoff, Mumbai Indians� star all-rounder Hardik Pandya said the setback motivated him to work harder and he is now in good shape both physically and mentally for the IPL starting September 19.
Pandya�s form will be crucial for defending champions Mumbai Indians, who will take on Chennai Super Kings in the lung-opener of the cash-rich T20 league on September 19.
�The way I�m hitting the ball right now, the shape I�m in, the mental space I�m in, it is just a matter of time that I go and spend some time on the ground and I think things will come out pretty well,� Pandya said in a video posted by Mumbai Indians� official Twitter handle.
�No matter how far I go from the game, no matter how long I stay out, when I come back, it has to be worth it. I have prepared very well and I think, great things are coming ahead,� the 26-year-old flamboyant all-rounder added.
Last year in November, Pandya had undergone a back surgery in London. He came back in the DY Patil T20 tournament held in early March.
He was even selected for the ODI series against South Africa, but the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the rubber to be abandoned, delayed his return. He is now looking forward to the IPL. � PTI
