[Watch] "So many emotions, but always grateful"- Hardik Pandya celebrates World Cup triumph with a roadshow in his hometown Baroda

Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya recently participated in a roadshow with thousands of fans in Baroda, celebrating the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph. He played a crucial role in India's trophy-winning campaign last month with brilliant performance in both batting and bowling departments.

Hardik provided vital breakthroughs with the ball when his team required. He also played the finisher role well with the bat, providing a wonderful balance to the Indian team yhroughout the tournament.

Hardik participated in the victory parade with teammates on arrival in India earlier this month in Mumbai. He then attended the wedding ceremony of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in the city before returning to his hometown, Baroda.

Hardik Pandya received a rousing reception from local fans, who showered him with adulation for helping India win the World Cup. He expressed gratitude for the love of the fans with a post on his Instagram.

Hardik wrote:

"Surreal ❤️ Thank you for all the love Baroda, thank you for the support and thank you for making this such a special day. So many emotions, but always grateful. 🙏🇮🇳

You can watch the reel below:

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Hardik Pandya set to miss upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka: Reports

According to reports in Express Sports, Hardik Pandya will be unavailable for the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. The team management will focus on the ODI format after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup to prepare for the Champions Trophy, which will be held in February next year. Hardik will miss the upcoming ODI series due to personal reasons.

The likes of Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh might get a chance to prove themselves in his absence in the middle-order.

However, Hardik is in contention to lead the Indian T20I side on the tour. The captaincy position in the shortest format is currently vacant, as Rohit Sharma retired after winning the World Cup last month.

Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav are strong contenders to become the next regular India T20 captain.

India's tour of Sri Lanka comprises three T20Is and as many ODI matches. Pallekele will host the T20I matches on July 27, 28, and 30. The two teams will then play ODI games on August 2, 4, and 7 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.