Hardik Pandya produced a breathtaking late assault to turn the fifth T20I against South Africa on its head in Ahmedabad. Coming in after early wickets, the Indian all-rounder tore into the bowling attack and raced to a half-century in just 16 balls, lifting India from trouble to complete control at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
India Lose Early Wickets in Ahmedabad
India’s innings began on an uncertain note. Sanju Samson departed early, followed soon by captain Suryakumar Yadav. The quick dismissals left India searching for momentum in a crucial final T20I of the series.
With pressure building and overs ticking away, India needed a counterattack. Hardik Pandya walked in with a clear intent to shift gears immediately.
Hardik Pandya 16-Ball Fifty Turns the Match
Pandya wasted no time settling in. He launched an aggressive assault from his first few deliveries, targeting both pace and spin. Boundaries flowed freely as he cleared the ropes with ease.
The all-rounder reached his half-century in just 16 balls, one of the fastest by an Indian in T20 internationals. He struck four fours and five sixes, finishing the innings unbeaten at a strike rate of over 340.
The Ahmedabad crowd erupted as Pandya sent ball after ball into the stands, completely swinging momentum back in India’s favour.
Tilak Varma & Pandya Build Rapid Partnership
Pandya found strong support from Tilak Varma at the other end. While Pandya went aerial, Tilak played a composed yet attacking role, ensuring the scoreboard kept moving.
The duo stitched together an unbeaten partnership of 80 runs off just 28 balls. Their stand allowed India to accelerate sharply in the death overs and erase the damage caused by early wickets.
Both batters remained unbeaten at the crease, giving India a powerful finish to the innings.
Why This Knock Matters for India?
Pandya’s innings came at a vital moment. India needed a commanding performance to close the series on a high note after mixed results earlier. His ability to absorb pressure and explode at the death underlined his value as a match-winner.
The knock also highlighted Pandya’s growing confidence as a senior player. His leadership with the bat helped stabilize the innings and energised the entire side.
On a pitch that rewarded aggressive stroke play, Pandya made full use of conditions and ensured India posted a competitive total.
IND vs SA 5th T20I: What’s at Stake?
The fifth T20I carried significance for both teams, with India aiming to assert dominance at home and South Africa looking to spoil the party. With a packed stadium backing the hosts, India seized control through Pandya’s late fireworks.
Now, the focus shifts to India’s bowlers as they look to defend the total and seal a memorable win in Ahmedabad.