From being booed at Wankhede Stadium to lifting the T20 World Cup and ICC Champions Trophy, Hardik Pandya’s last year has been a story of redemption. The Indian all-rounder, who will be returning as the captain of Mumbai Indians, can expect a warmer reception from the crowd at Wankhede Stadium this year. "For me, it has always been about never leaving the battlefield. There have been phases in my career where my focus wasn't necessarily on winning but on surviving and holding my ground," Pandya told 'JioHotstar'. He added that cricket has always been his greatest ally, and the past year unfolded in a way he could never have scripted. "I realized that no matter what was happening around me, cricket would always be my greatest ally. I kept pushing through, and when all the hard work finally paid off, it was beyond anything I could have imagined," he said. Pandya spoke about the huge support he got after India’s T20 World Cup win and how people's opinions about him changed completely. "The six-month phase where we won the World Cup, and then the kind of love and support I received upon returning—it was a complete 360-degree turnaround for me," he added. Also Read: MS Dhoni recalls 'his biggest mistake' in IPL '2024 season was challenging for us' Taking over the Mumbai Indians captaincy from Rohit Sharma in 2024, Pandya had a tough season as MI finished last with just four wins in 14 matches. "Having played in the IPL for almost 11 years now, each season brings new energy and fresh positivity. The 2024 season was undoubtedly challenging for us as a group, but it also provided invaluable lessons," Pandya said. However, he remains optimistic about a strong comeback in 2025. "We analyzed those learnings and applied them while building our team for 2025. This time, we have assembled an experienced squad with players who have played a lot of cricket at the highest level," he added. When asked for his advice to young players, he encouraged them to believe in themselves and stay balanced through the ups and downs of their careers. "The biggest challenge at this stage is self-doubt. Sometimes, players start questioning whether they belong at this level, and that doubt can take away from their skill set. In this game, there will be highs and lows. The key is to remain balanced, not just for one season but throughout their careers," he said. The Mumbai Indians, aiming to become the first team to lift the IPL title for the sixth time, will begin their 2025 campaign on March 23 against their arch-rivals, the Chennai Super Kings.