Hardik Pandya’s Explosive 16-Ball Fifty Dazzles in Fifth T20I Against SA

Hardik Pandya delivered a stunning performance in the fifth T20I against South Africa, establishing himself as a key player early in the match. Playing in Ahmedabad, Pandya entered the game at a critical point and made an immediate impact.

Hardik Pandya’s Explosive Innings

Pandya stepped onto the field during the 13th over when India captain Suryakumar Yadav was dismissed, scoring just five runs. The dismissal occurred on the first delivery of the over, as Yadav was caught by David Miller off Corbin Bosch’s bowling.

On his very first ball, Pandya showed his intent by hitting a six that not only cleared the boundary but also struck a cameraman positioned at long-off. Fortunately, medical staff attended to the cameraman without serious consequences.

Record-Breaking Fifty

Following this explosive entrance, Pandya demonstrated his batting prowess in the subsequent over against George Linde. He scored an impressive 27 runs from that over, including three sixes and two fours. This display of power-hitting allowed him to reach his fifty in just 16 balls, marking it as the second-fastest fifty in India’s T20I history, trailing only Yuvraj Singh’s record of 12 balls.

Ultimately, Pandya’s innings concluded at a remarkable 63 runs off just 25 balls, featuring five sixes and five fours. His contributions helped India amass a total of 231 runs for 5 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Match Highlights

• Match: Fifth T20I vs South Africa
• Date: Friday (Date not specified in the original content)
• Location: Ahmedabad
• India’s Total: 231 for 5
• Pandya’s Performance: 63 runs off 25 balls
• Fastest Fifty: 16 balls
• Previous Record Holder: Yuvraj Singh (12 balls)

Team Changes

Prior to the match, South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram won the toss and opted to bowl first. The visitors made one change to their lineup, bringing in George Linde for fast bowler Anrich Nortje.

On the Indian side, Jasprit Bumrah returned to the team after missing the third T20I due to personal reasons. He replaced Harshit Rana, while Washington Sundar came in for Kuldeep Yadav. Additionally, Sanju Samson was included in the playing XI, taking the place of vice-captain Shubman Gill, who was sidelined due to a toe injury.

Hardik Pandya’s remarkable performance not only turned the tides of the game but also underscored his significance in the Indian T20 squad.