All-rounder Hardik Pandya was named India’s Impact Player for their 21-run victory over Oman in the 2025 Asia Cup. Pandya earned the honor for his key contributions, which played a crucial role in the win. Team training assistant Dayanand Garani awarded Pandya with the medal, India’s internal version of the Player of the Match award, in recognition of his efforts.
A Mixed Performance with Bat and Ball
Pandya was promoted to No. 4 in the batting order but was dismissed for a duck, run out at the non-striker’s end due to a deflection from bowler Jitenkumar Ramanandi’s fingers. However, Pandya made up for his batting failure with a brilliant all-round performance in the second innings. He took the crucial wicket of half-centurion Hammad Mirza and made a spectacular catch to dismiss Aamir Kaleem.
“Today’s match was a great one. Thank you, Gautam sir. Today’s impact player is everyone’s pride and honor, Hardik Pandya,” Garani said in a video shared by the BCCI.
Pandya’s Message for Pakistan Match
In his speech, Pandya thanked his teammates and gave a bold message for India’s upcoming Super-Four clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, September 21.
“I think we had a very good game today as a group. We were tested. It was hot, but at the same time, everyone came in and played their role. On the 21st, it’s just another game; let’s play the game when it’s played, not before it,” Pandya said.
A Heartfelt Gesture to Garani
Pandya also dedicated his Impact Player medal to Dayanand Garani, acknowledging the hard work the training assistant puts into the team’s fielding drills.
“I would like to give this to Daya on my behalf. Daya, the hard work you guys do, and the work you put in for our fielding drills, it’s for that,” he said.
Tradition of Dressing Room Medals
Dressing room medals have been a tradition in the Indian team since 2023, becoming especially popular during the 2023 World Cup. The medals have also gained a lot of attention from fans, symbolizing team spirit and internal recognition.
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