Watch: Fans chant 'Hardik, Hardik' at Wankhede stadium ahead of T20 World Cup victory parade

Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has successfully regained the respect and adoration of fans, as evidenced by the enthusiastic cheers of supporters at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. A video circulating on social media captured the moment when the crowd erupted in chants of the 30-year-old cricketer's name.

Pandya, hailing from Baroda, faced a challenging period during IPL 2024, where he encountered backlash from fans who booed him following his appointment as captain of the Mumbai Indians in place of Rohit Sharma. His lackluster all-round performance during the tournament sparked debates regarding his inclusion in the T20 World Cup 2024 squad. However, Pandya silenced his critics by playing a pivotal role in India's World Cup victory, most notably by successfully defending 16 runs in the final over of the tournament-decider against South Africa in Barbados.

2 months after he was massively booed by the fans, HARDIK HARDIK chants take over Wankhede 

GREATEST REDEMPTION IN THE HISTORY OF CRICKET!!!!#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/BMDQgWTyfT

— Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) July 4, 2024

Despite facing adversity, Pandya's resilience and determination ultimately led to a triumphant moment that solidified his place in the hearts of fans and reaffirmed his status as a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team.

In an interview with the host broadcaster following the final, Pandya responded to his critics by expressing his disdain for their disrespect towards him. He confidently stated that he finds greater satisfaction in proving them wrong through his performances on the field.

"I believe in grace. A lot was said by people who don't know even know me one percent as a person. People have spoken, no issues but I have always believed in life that you never respond with words, circumstances can respond. Even difficult times, they don't last forever. It is important to be graceful, whether you win or lose. It is time for fans and everyone else to learn that (to be graceful). We need to find better ways to conduct yourself."

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