Hardik Pandya couldn’t have asked for a better comeback to competitive cricket. After months away due to injury, he walked in and produced a match winning performance that reminded everyone of his worth.
His knock not only won the match for Baroda but also sent a strong message ahead of the season.
Baroda chased down Punjab’s 222, the third highest successful chase in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy history.
Hardik Pandya scored 77* off 42, 7 fours and 4 sixes. He finished the match with 3 sixes in a row and won with 5 balls to spare.
Earlier Punjab Anmolpreet Singh scored 69(32) and Abhishek Sharma 51(19). Pandya bowled 4 overs and took 1 wicket.
What stood out was Pandya’s composure under pressure. He walked in during a tricky phase and kept the chase steady before switching gears in the last overs.
His timing, footwork and clean hits showed that the long break hadn’t affected his rhythm. Baroda’s chase was well paced, giving Pandya the space to take control in the end.
This is important not just for Baroda but also for Pandya’s personal comeback. After missing the Australia tour and the Asia Cup final, questions were raised about his fitness.
This performance will ease those concerns and show he is on the right track. In the end Baroda won a memorable match, courtesy Pandya’s calm leadership and explosive finish. And a fan running in for a selfie only added to the drama of the comeback night.
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