How did Hardik Pandya’s unbeaten 59 lead India to 175?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying matchup, Hardik Pandya's exceptional performance propelled India to a total of 175 runs against South Africa in the first T20I. His unbeaten score of 59 was pivotal as the home team navigated early setbacks to secure a competitive total. Read on to find out more about the match highlights and key performances.
Key Takeaways
- Hardik Pandya led India with an unbeaten 59.
- India reached a total of 175 runs.
- South Africa's Lungi Ngidi was the best bowler with 3 wickets.
- Key partnerships were vital for India’s recovery.
- The match marks the start of a five-match T20I series.
Cuttack, Dec 9 (NationPress) Hardik Pandya emerged as the standout performer, helping the home team to reach a total of 175 runs, thanks to his impressive unbeaten half-century against South Africa in the initial match of the five-match T20I series at the Barabati Stadium.
With Shubman Gill making a highly anticipated comeback following his recovery from an injury, there was much excitement surrounding his performance. Unfortunately, Lungi Ngidi dismissed him early on, allowing the vice-captain to score just four runs from two balls before returning to the pavilion. This early breakthrough gave South Africa a boost, and they celebrated again when Ngidi claimed the wicket of Suryakumar Yadav in the third over.
The Indian captain was looking solid, hitting a six and a four, including his signature ‘supla’ shot, before a miscalculated shot led to his dismissal, caught brilliantly by Aiden Markram over mid-on. Openers Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma managed to navigate the powerplay effectively, with India posting 40/2 after six overs.
Abhishek was in good form and finding his rhythm, but shortly after the powerplay, Lutho Sipamla got the better of him, giving South Africa a vital breakthrough.
The innings slowed down in the following overs as Varma and Axar Patel struggled to hit boundaries, opting for singles and doubles instead. Varma did hit a spectacular 89-meter six off Anrich Nortje in the 10th over, but he could not build on that and was ultimately dismissed after scoring 26 runs off 32 balls.
Although Patel contributed significantly while building partnerships with Varma and Pandya, it was the Baroda all-rounder who truly shined during the innings.
Pandya confidently attacked the bowlers, amassing six fours and four sixes, showcasing his talent until the last ball. Despite short innings from Shivam Dube and Jitesh Sharma, who scored 11 and 10 runs respectively, their contributions were impactful.
Pandya’s crucial innings propelled India from a precarious 50/3 to a respectable total of 175/6 at the conclusion of their 20 overs.
On the visiting side, Marco Jansen displayed exceptional fielding with several outstanding catches, though he did not take any wickets. Ngidi stood out as South Africa’s best bowler, finishing with figures of 3-31, while Sipamla and Donovan Ferreira took two and one wicket respectively.
Brief Scores: India 175/6 in 20 overs (Hardik Pandya 59*, Tilak Varma 26; Lungi Ngidi 3-31, Lutho Sipamla 2-38) against South Africa.
Point of View
I recognize the significant impact of Hardik Pandya's innings on India's performance in the T20I series. His ability to anchor the innings despite early setbacks showcases his skill and determination, reflecting the resilience of the Indian cricket team. The match serves as an exciting opening to the series against South Africa, and we hope to see more thrilling performances ahead.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Hardik Pandya's score in the 1st T20I?
Hardik Pandya scored an unbeaten 59 runs in the 1st T20I against South Africa.
Where was the 1st T20I match played?
The 1st T20I match was played at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack.
What was India's total score in the 1st T20I?
India set a total of 175 runs in their innings against South Africa.
Who were the standout bowlers for South Africa?
Lungi Ngidi was the standout bowler for South Africa, taking 3 wickets for 31 runs.
What were the key partnerships during the innings?
Key partnerships included those between Pandya and Axar Patel, as well as Tilak Varma, which helped stabilize India's innings after early wickets.
