Hardik Pandya’s Diplomatic Response to Pakistan Travel Question Earns Praise in Champions Trophy 2025

India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya once again showcased his maturity and composure, but this time off the field. During the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pandya was asked about India’s decision to play all their matches in Dubai instead of traveling to Pakistan, the tournament's original host. His response, both respectful and diplomatic, has since gone viral, earning appreciation from fans across the cricketing world.

https://youtube.com/shorts/G7O5hROyxdA?si=Lj5oS8hKarqJLEY2

Hardik Pandya’s Thoughtful Response to Pakistan Travel Question

While interacting with the media in the ICC press zone, a journalist raised the question that many Pakistan fans had been asking: Why didn’t India play in Pakistan? Pandya, known for his cool-headed demeanor, smiled and replied:

"It is above my pay grade to clarify why we didn’t go to Pakistan."

His lighthearted yet tactful response instantly gained traction, with fans and experts lauding him for handling a sensitive issue without stirring controversy.

A video of his response quickly went viral, amassing over 8.5 lakh views, with thousands of comments from cricket fans worldwide. Many Pakistani fans praised his sensible reply and expressed their hopes of seeing the Indian team play in Pakistan in the future.

One Pakistani fan wrote:
???? "I wish one day Team India will visit Pakistan, and we get to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play here."

Another commented:
???? "Hardik Pandya has given a very diplomatic and sensible answer. True professional!"

Why Didn’t India Travel to Pakistan?

India’s decision not to play in Pakistan was not a cricketing one but rather a political and security matter. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had made it clear that the Indian team would only participate in the Champions Trophy if their matches were hosted at a neutral venue. Ultimately, all of India’s matches, including the final against New Zealand, were played in Dubai.

While some cricket experts argued that playing all matches at one venue gave India an advantage, the team’s unbeaten run and ultimate triumph in the tournament silenced any critics.

Hardik Pandya’s Impact in Champions Trophy 2025

Hardik Pandya played a crucial role for India in the tournament, contributing both with the bat and ball:

???? Batting Performances:

• Scored 99 runs in four innings at an average of 24.75
• Played a match-winning 45 off 45 balls against New Zealand
• Smashed 28 off 24 balls, including three massive sixes, against Australia

???? Bowling Contributions:

• Opened the bowling in several matches, allowing India to field four spinners
• Took 4 key wickets in the tournament

His all-round performances in pressure situations played a vital role in India's victorious campaign, proving why he remains an indispensable part of the Indian squad.