Hardik Pandya delivered a stunning all-rounder performance in Cuttack on Tuesday, smashing an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls to guide India to a defining, dominant win over South Africa in the first T20I. This amazing innings earned him the Player of the Match award and helped India post a strong total of 175/6, which ultimately proved far beyond the visitors’ reach.
Walking in at a tricky stage, Pandya shifted momentum with controlled aggression, adapting quickly to the challenging surface.
Reflecting on his approach, Pandya said after the match to the media that he relied on clarity and confidence at the crease.
He said, "I had to back my shots. I realised the wicket had a bit of spice. I had to be a bit gutsy. It was more about timing the ball, not breaking the ball. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting."
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Hardik Pandya on discipline
Pandya also spoke about the discipline behind his improved fitness, emphasising the hard work done away from the spotlight.
"The last six-seven months have been great from my fitness point of view. These last 50 days, being away from loved ones, being at NCA (National Cricket Academy), making sure that all these things are covered. It was satisfying when you come here, the results come like this," he added.
Highlighting his mindset and commitment to the team, Pandya stated, "As a cricketer, I have never been fussy about what roles I have in the game. I have always been motivated to all the time make sure that it doesn't matter what Hardik Pandya wants, it is about what India wants. The mindset helps me. I have always tried to put my team first. That is my biggest USP and that is what has helped me."
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Speaking about his strategy against Keshav Maharaj, he explained, "I knew he wouldn't be going closer to Axar. I don't think I was planning that. If it came in my arc, I was going for it. He took a chance, so did I. Mine was more calculative on that track. I tried to capitalise and it paid off. It is about gamesmanship and identifying the right bowlers and take the bowlers down. If it comes off, it looks good."
Match highlights
In India’s innings, Pandya was the top scorer with 59*, followed by Tilak Varma (26 off 32) and Axar Patel (23 off 21). For South Africa, Lungi Ngidi (3/31) and Lutho Sipamla (2/38) were the standout bowlers.
The run-chase proved one-sided as South Africa crumbled to 74 all out in 12.3 overs. Dewald Brevis (22 off 14) offered brief resistance before India’s bowlers-Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy and Axar Patel (two wickets each), along with Hardik and Shivam Dube (one apiece)-sealed the win.
With a commanding display of intent and execution, Pandya played a pivotal role in giving India a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.
