India's Non-Appearance in Pakistan Champions Trophy-Hardik Pandya's candid analysis

India's Champions Trophy win was the country's matter of pride, but one of the most frequently debated topics for the tournament was India's inability to play their matches in Pakistan and opting instead to play them in Dubai. Following the blockbuster last game versus New Zealand, India's all-rounder Hardik Pandya was quizzed on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to not tour the team to Pakistan. His reply was concise—saying it was not in his authority to make decisions like that. 

Hardik Pandya's Straightforward Admission

In the wake of India's four-wicket win over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Stadium, Hardik Pandya was grilled about the team not visiting Pakistan for the gala ICC event. He acknowledged curiosity about the topic but explained that he was not involved in such high-level decisions.

"I am certain Pakistani nationals who are residing in Dubai would have appreciated our performance. The why we did not go is above my pay grade," Pandya replied while responding to the question.

His statement was an indication that decisions on international travel and political issues are made by cricketing authorities and the government, not cricketers.

India's Hybrid Model in the Champions Trophy

While the article technically credited the Champions Trophy to Pakistan, the BCCI opted for a hybrid solution in hosting all their matches in Dubai. This was a compromise made to keep Indian players away from visiting Pakistan and still competing within the tournament. The last showdown against New Zealand was one of the most thrilling ones, with India ultimately emerging victorious, garnering yet another ICC trophy as their add-on.

Pandya's Thoughts on the Win

Besides the tournament's politics, Hardik Pandya also addressed India's victorious campaign and his own experience. He emphasized how his strategy has always been to face challenges and not avoid them.

"Bowling will take care of itself. The year was learning-filled and challenging. My attitude has never taught me to run away from challenges. I have always believed that if the challenges are tough, throw punches. If you don't get off the field, then you have a chance," Pandya said in a media interaction.

For Pandya, all the hard work behind the scenes had finally paid off. His belief in preparation and determination came true as he made a gigantic contribution to India's victory.

A Redemption Story-Pandya's Journey from 2017 to 2025

The Champions Trophy victory meant more to Pandya because it erased some bitter memories of India's loss to Pakistan at the 2017 event. Eight years had passed since that heartbreak, and for Pandya, this victory filled an incomplete chapter in his career.

“I can say that an incomplete dream is over today. But eight years is a very long time. A lot of things happened in life in eight years. But at the same time, winning, and that too for India, is something very, very important for me,” he admitted.

He further emphasized his team-first attitude, stating that individual achievements take a backseat to collective success.

This is not a discussion, but it's a rule of my life. I have always thought that if Hardik Pandya doesn't do anything, it is fine. But if the team plays well, it will be fantastic," he added further.

Looking Ahead-Pandya's Next Challenge in IPL

With the pursuit of the Champions Trophy now behind him, Pandya is focusing on the next challenge—the Indian Premier League (IPL). He will captain Mumbai Indians for the second consecutive year. His captaincy will also be keenly watched, with the fans and pundits analyzing his leadership approach following his victory in the Champions Trophy.

Conclusion

India's refusal to go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy was certainly a big discussion point, but for players like Hardik Pandya, everything was about the game and the performance. His open acknowledgment of the fact brought out the reality that such calls are taken at a different level so that the players can focus on their sport. With India claiming yet another ICC crown, the grit and adaptability of the side was showcased to the fullest, and Pandya's evolution from the tragedy of 2017 to the triumph of 2025 testified to his growth as a cricketer and a captain.