Post by : Meena Ariff

Hardik Pandya played a match-defining innings as India defeated South Africa convincingly in the first T20 International at Cuttack on Tuesday. Pandya remained unbeaten on 59 off just 28 balls, including five fours and four sixes, and was rightly named Player of the Match. His aggressive and calculated approach helped India post a competitive total of 175/6, setting the tone for a dominant performance.

Coming in during a challenging phase, Pandya immediately counterattacked with precision and composure. Speaking after the match, he said, “I had to trust my instincts and adapt quickly to the surface. The wicket had some bounce and pace, so it was about timing rather than power. I am very satisfied with how I batted.”

Pandya also credited his rigorous fitness routine for his return to form. “The last six to seven months have been crucial for my fitness. Being away from family, training at the National Cricket Academy, and focusing on discipline has really helped. Seeing it reflect in my performance today is extremely satisfying,” he said.

Known for his team-first mindset, Pandya added, “As a cricketer, I have never been fussy about roles. My focus is always on what India needs. That approach has been my biggest strength and has helped me contribute consistently.”

Strategically, Pandya targeted South African spinner Keshav Maharaj. “I was assessing the bowler and looking for calculated opportunities. Gamesmanship is key—identifying the right bowlers to attack. Today it worked in my favor,” he explained.

In support, Tilak Varma scored 26 off 32 balls, and Axar Patel contributed 23 runs in 21 balls, including a six, providing crucial late-innings momentum. For South Africa, Lungi Ngidi was the standout bowler with figures of 3/31, while Lutho Sipmala took 2/38.

Chasing 176, South Africa struggled from the start. Dewald Brevis offered brief resistance with 22 off 14 balls, but the visitors were bowled out for just 74 in 12.3 overs. Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, and Axar Patel claimed two wickets each, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube chipped in with one wicket each.

Pandya’s exceptional all-round performance highlighted his fitness, tactical awareness, and team-first attitude, playing a pivotal role in India securing a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.

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