Hardik Pandya made a stunning comeback from injury, smashing an unbeaten 59 off just 28 balls to power India to a commanding 101-run victory over South Africa in the first T20I at the Barabati Stadium on Tuesday.
India had a shaky start, slipping to 78 for four in the 12th over. Tilak Varma struggled to gain momentum with a sluggish 26 off 32 balls, while South Africa’s pace trio—Lungi Ngidi, Marco Jansen, and Anrich Nortje—kept India under pressure. The usually lively Barabati crowd grew tense, waiting for a spark. That spark arrived when Hardik Pandya walked in.
Hardik immediately shifted the gears. His first delivery faced was launched for a massive six over long-on off Keshav Maharaj, followed instantly by another maximum. From that moment, India’s innings took a dramatic turn.
He continued his assault on Lutho Sipamla, smashing a short ball straight down the ground and lofting another over long-off to push India beyond 150. The highlight came in the 19th over, when Nortje bowled a wide delivery outside off stump—Hardik sliced it over third man for six. Two balls later, he sent a length delivery soaring over mid-on for four, showcasing his trademark mix of power and precision.
India eventually posted 175 for six, with Hardik’s explosive knock studded with six fours and four sixes. More than the runs, it was his composure, clarity of intent, and ability to turn a pressure situation into dominance that defined the innings.
South Africa collapsed in response. Quinton de Kock fell for a duck, and regular wickets ensured the chase never took off. Dewald Brevis top-scored with just 22 as the Proteas folded for 74 in 12.3 overs.
India's bowling attack delivered a complete performance—Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah took two wickets each, while Varun Chakaravarthy and Axar Patel also bagged two apiece. Hardik added a wicket to cap off an all-round display.
Team selection buzzed with discussion too, as Sanju Samson was not included in the playing XI despite growing calls for him to get a consistent run. Many fans felt he deserved an opportunity, especially with India experimenting ahead of future assignments.
Scoreboard:
India: 175/6 (Hardik Pandya 59, Tilak Varma 26)
South Africa: 74 all out in 12.3 overs (Dewald Brevis 22, Aiden Markram 14)
Bowling: Arshdeep Singh 2/14, Jasprit Bumrah 2/17, Varun Chakaravarthy 2/19, Axar Patel 2/7, Hardik Pandya 1/16
Result: India won by 101 runs.
