India all-rounder Hardik Pandya delivered an explosive exhibition of power-hitting to guide India to a decisive 30-run win over South Africa in the fifth and final T20I in Ahmedabad on Friday, clinching the five-match series 3-1. Pandya’s aggressive innings established the mood as India amassed a formidable 231 for 5.
Hardik struck a 16-ball fifty — the second-quickest by an Indian in T20 internationals — as he raced to a remarkable 63 from only 25 balls. His innings featured five boundaries and five impressive sixes.
The slaughter was enhanced by Tilak Varma, who maintained his excellent form with a smooth 73. The pair formed a relentless 105-run partnership for the fourth wicket that entirely shifted momentum from the visitors.
One of Pandya’s huge sixes caused an unforeseen incident off the field as the ball hit a cameraman positioned near the boundary.
Demonstrating concern beyond the game, Pandya quickly approached the cameraman to assess his condition after his innings, making sure he received care and even assisting with an ice pack.
Hardik embraced the cameraman as well, a move that soon became viral and garnered extensive acclaim from supporters.
In response, South Africa started strong and stayed in the hunt as long as Quinton de Kock was batting. The left-handed batsman made a determined 65, but after his dismissal, the innings collapsed quickly. Varun Chakravarthy wove a net around the middle order, taking four wickets as South Africa lost seven wickets for 81 runs, ending at 201 for 8.
Pandya’s significant contributions and pivotal innings secured him the Player of the Match title.
Hardik Pandya Hits Second-Fastest T20I Fifty
“Securing victories is the goal, and it’s always thrilling when your efforts aid the team in reaching that success.” No, I genuinely wasn’t aware (he has the second quickest fifty for India) until I got dismissed and returned. “The guys managing our social media informed me that I was the second-fastest,” Pandya stated.
“My initial response was, “Oh, I lost the number one position!” But glad that Yuvi pa maintains that record. I felt it today. I mentioned to my partner ahead of time that I would look to hit the first ball for six. “I’m sure it would work,” he stated.
“The circumstances matched my approach; I trusted myself and it paid off.” I made a measured gamble, and fortunately, it turned out in my favor. I’ve always appreciated the challenge. Regardless of the number of challenges you encounter, the goal is to return more powerful, improved, and create a greater influence. When everything aligns, it feels fulfilling. “However, the journey goes on – the preparation, the planning, the effort is relentless,” Pandya stated.