Hardik Pandya Reveals Army-Style Training Camp Before T20 World Cup

India’s Hardik Pandya, one of the team’s key all-rounders, revealed that he embarked on an “army-like training camp” about one month before the start of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 — a rigorous preparation routine that he credited for his resurgence in form and impact performance during India’s dominant run in the tournament so far. The revelation came after India’s emphatic 93-run victory over Namibia in New Delhi on Feb. 12, 2026, where Pandya starred with both bat and ball.

Pandya told reporters following the match that his month-long regime closely resembled a disciplined army camp, blending double training sessions, strict diet and sleep habits, and a focused fitness schedule. “I do an army-like camp a month before the tournament,” he said, underscoring that the preparation was designed to ensure peak physical condition for the intense demands of World Cup competition.

The 30-year-old all-rounder’s performance against Namibia was pivotal to India’s commanding win. Pandya scored a quick 28-ball 52 and also took two wickets, playing a defining role in India amassing a formidable 209/9 before bowling out the Namibian side for 116. His contributions earned him the Player of the Match award, reinforcing the value of his prep work.

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Pandya emphasised that his success was not the result of one-off effort but stemmed from months of disciplined training leading up to the World Cup. By focusing on rhythm, body conditioning and mental readiness, he said he was able to perform freely on the field. “Playing for the country is the No. 1 priority,” Pandya added, noting that rigorous conditioning underpinned his confidence going into the tournament.

India’s coaching staff and broader squad have backed structured preparation ahead of major tournaments, with fitness and form high on the agenda following the team’s bid to defend its T20 World Cup title on home soil. The army-style approach reflects a growing emphasis on professional conditioning and mental resilience in modern international cricket.

As India’s campaign progresses, Pandya’s revelation highlights the individual commitment behind high-level performance and offers insight into how top players fine-tune their bodies and skills in the lead-up to cricket’s most prestigious global events.

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