Hardik Pandya Shines on Comeback; Takes India to Competitive Total Against SA

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is known for his finishing skills with the bat as well as his bowling. The right-hander backs himself for performing in tough situations and proved himself yet against during the India national cricket team vs South Africa national cricket team 1st T20I at Cuttack.

Coming in to bat when going was tough, Pandya, who is currently one of the best all-rounders in the world, produced a masterclass with the bat to bail India out of trouble. He was aggressive right from the beginning and showed intent which put the South African bowlers on the backfoot in the IND vs SA 1st T20I.

Hardik Pandya Comeback Becomes a Memorable One

Hardik came in to bat when India were 78-4 in the 12th over of the match. The Men in Blue had just lost Tilak Varma, another batter who is a proven big-match performer. Pandya didn't waste any time and slammed a huge six off Keshav Maharaj off just his second ball. It was just the start of a storm that blew South Africa away.

He didn't stop here and smashed another six in the same over to make his intentions absolutely clear. He was not in the mood to settle down and once he got his eyes in, he attacked every bowler with great precision and power. Hardik Pandya played both spinners and fast bowlers perfectly and didn't allow them to settle down.

While other batters were struggling to score runs on a tacky pitch at Barabati Stadium, Pandya wasn't bothered about it. In the last two overs, he smashed 2 sixes and as many fours to take India to a competitive total of 175-6. This kind of knock came from Hardik's bat after a long time.

The right-hander, who is considered as one of the best finishers in the world, was in his zone and will look to replicate a good performance with the ball as well. Hardik Pandya batting in this match was a treat to watch for all the spectators present inside the stadium.

Hardik Pandya Paparazzi Incident

The knock came on the day when Pandya was involved in a controversy with the paparazzi who had clicked inappropriate photos of Mahieka Sharma. It led to Hardik coming in front as he slammed the paparazzi for not respecting the women.

Mahieka Sharma is Hardik Pandya new girlfriend as the couple has been seen together a no. of times. However, the India cricketer wasn't happy with the incident and didn't back down to share his thoughts in public.