India all-rounder Hardik Pandya once again stole the show in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a prestigious domestic T20 competition. Hardik played a blistering knock of 69 runs from just 30 balls, propelling Baroda to an exhilarating victory over Tamil Nadu.
Hardik’s explosive innings came at a crucial time, as Baroda were in a difficult position at 152 for 6 in the 16th over while chasing a daunting target of 222. Hardik’s calm yet powerful approach in the final overs proved to be the game-changer, as he single-handedly swung the match in Baroda’s favor.
Hardik Pandya asserts dominance over Gurjapneet Singh
Hardik’s arrival at the crease was nothing short of dramatic. Facing Gurjapneet Singh, the young Chennai Super Kings (CSK) recruit who had earlier gained attention for dismissing Virat Kohli in the nets, Pandya took no time to assert his dominance. In a remarkable display of power hitting, Hardik smashed four consecutive sixes off Singh’s bowling, followed by a boundary, accumulating a massive 29 runs from the over.
Hardik’s stunning onslaught reduced the required target to just 36 runs from 18 balls. He didn’t stop there; he continued his aggressive assault, striking three more sixes and adding three boundaries, ultimately guiding Baroda to a thrilling seven-wicket victory in a match that came down to the last ball.
Here is the video:
6⃣,6⃣,6⃣,6⃣,4⃣
One goes out of the park 💥
Power & Panache: Hardik Pandya is setting the stage on fire in Indore 🔥🔥
Can he win it for Baroda?
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/DDt2Ar20h9#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/Bj6HCgJIHv
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) November 27, 2024
Also READ: Mumbai Indians IPL 2025 Squad: Complete players list of MI after the mega auction
Positive signs ahead of IPL 2025
With the IPL 2025 season approaching, Hardik’s fiery performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has raised the stakes for the Mumbai Indians (MI) fans. Hardik, who has been retained as MI’s captain for the 2024 season, showcased his explosive form just ahead of the IPL, a sign that he could be primed for a strong return to action.
After a dynamic domestic performance, MI fans are hopeful that Hardik will bring his all-round abilities to the fore in IPL 2025 and lead his team to glory once again. His confidence, power hitting, and leadership qualities are expected to make him a key figure in MI’s pursuit of the IPL title in the coming season.