- By Gurmeet Batra
- Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:34 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
India vs South Africa Cuttack T20I: Prime all-rounder Hardik Pandya's all-round performance handed India a massive 101-run victory in the first T20I of the five-match series against South Africa at the Barabati Stadium.
Adjudged as the Player of the Match, Pandya's skilful innings steered India out of trouble, as he navigated a challenging pitch, unleashing a devastating counterattack, pushing India to 175/6. The total proved South Africa's undoing as the visitors collapsed to 74 all out in 12.3 overs.
After orchestrating a match-winning performance, Hardik put fitness doubts to rest, stressing that he has been working hard. He also alluded to his rigorous rehab stint at the Centre of Excellence (CoE).
"I had to back my shots. At the same point in time, I realised that the wicket had a bit of spice. You had to be a little gutsy, and it was more about timing the ball, not trying to break the ball. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting. I think the last six or seven months have been really amazing from a fitness standpoint. I don’t make a big deal about the hard work that goes behind it, but at the same time, these last 50 days, being away from your loved ones, spending time at the NCA, making sure everything is covered. It’s very satisfying when you come here and the results follow," Hardik Pandya said in a post-match presentation.
Pandya emphasised his dedication to team needs, stating it's not about what he wants, but about grabbing opportunities to contribute to India's cause.
"As a cricketer, I don’t think I’ve ever been fussy about my role. I’ve always been motivated to make sure it doesn’t matter what Hardik Pandya wants; it matters what India wants. Whenever I get opportunities, I try to do my best. Some days are good, some aren’t, but the mindset always helps me. Throughout my career, I’ve tried to put my team first, the nation first, whichever team I’ve played for. That’s my biggest USP and that’s what has always helped me," Pandya added.
"I kind of knew he (Maharaj) wouldn’t go closer to Axar. I didn’t plan it that way; it was just that if it came into my arc, I wanted to go for it. He took a chance and I took a chance. Mine was more calculated on that track, and it paid off. I think that gave us rhythm, gave us momentum that we capitalised on. We were 20-25 runs ahead of the game when those overs began. It’s just about gamesmanship, identifying the right bowler to take down on the day. When it comes off, it looks good," the star all-rounder said.
On a pitch that turned even routine strokes into laboured efforts, Pandya produced an innings of uncommon quality, smashing six boundaries and four sixes.