Cut: Hardik Pandya returned to international cricket as if he had never been away, leading India to a statement win over South Africa in the first T20I at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack on Tuesday. On a surface with enough spice to test technique and temperament, Pandya’s mantra was simple: back his shots, trust his timing and put India first. The result was a stunning 59* from 29 balls and a wicket on his very first toss – the kind of all-round performance that immediately recalibrated the competition and reaffirmed his value to the national set-up.
India’s 175/6 looked more competitive than impressive at half-time, but once the bowlers found their rhythm it proved well beyond South Africa’s reach. Failing for just 74, the visitors buckled under the relentless pressure as India cruised to a 101-run win.
Pandya changes pace
Pandya, who had returned from an injury that kept him out of action for more than two months, gave strong reasons for his decision. His unbeaten 59, decorated with six fours and four sixes, was more of a calculated attack than blind aggression. He later spoke of being “brave” and “timing the ball, not breaking it”, a reflection of how he perceived the surface and the bowlers.
His approach also brought a milestone: he became only the fourth Indian to reach 100 T20I sixes, joining Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Virat Kohli.
More than the numbers, it was the intent that dictated the innings. India had been shaken early on – Abhishek Sharma fell after the powerplay, Tilak Varma’s 26 off 32 was steady without being fluid and Suryakumar Yadav’s fight continued with a 12-run stay. Shubman Gill’s early exit added to the pressure. At 48 for 3, India needed clarity and composure. Pandya delivered both.
Tilak provided support but when the all-rounder switched gears, India’s innings changed. From over seven to fifteen, India amassed over 90 runs and a late surge added 44 more. What initially looked like a fight towards 160 turned into a confident march towards 175.
Bowlers seal the defeat
If Pandya caused a stir in the first half, the bowlers ensured that there were no twists in the script. Arshdeep Singh, India’s leading T20I wicket-taker, set the tone with early knocks – Quinton de Kock and Dewald Brevis were removed before South Africa could settle down. Varun Chakaravarthy then caught Aiden Markram and tightened the noose even further.
Refreshed after his attempt to bat, Pandya dismissed a batter with his first ball, continuing his dream comeback. Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel contributed two wickets each as South Africa collapsed without partnerships or resistance.
The Proteas captain admitted the batting performance “went downhill” and although he felt 175 was achievable on a sticky track with tennis ball bounce, his line-up never came close.
Lungi Ngidi’s three wickets early in the game had given South Africa hope, but the chase ended almost immediately. When India smelled blood, they were ruthless.
Leaders respond: clarity, control and collective implementation
Suryakumar Yadav praised his side’s resilience: they recovered from 48 for 3 to 175, managed the roles sensibly and remained fearless with the bat. He emphasized the decision to protect Pandya’s bowling load by using Arshdeep and Bumrah in the powerplay before later unleashing the returning all-rounder.
Pandya, who was named player of the match, spoke at length about his mindset – he prioritized the team, adapted to the conditions and took calculated decisions, especially when it came to Keshav Maharaj. His thoughts on the subject of fitness should also be highlighted; Months of recovery and 50 days in the NCA, away from her loved ones, had led to a moment of deep contentment.
Arshdeep kept his explanation simple: hit the seam, trust the wicket, stay disciplined. His welcome message to Bumrah to join the 100-wicket club summed up the levity in the Indian camp.
India’s emphatic win was based on clear roles, tactical discipline and a fearless midfield rebuild led by Pandya. For a player returning from injury, this wasn’t just a comeback – it was proof that he remains one of India’s most influential match-winners.
