Hardik Pandya showcased another exceptional bowling performance as India clinched a thrilling six-run victory over Pakistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup on Sunday, June 9, in New York. Despite the Indian batters managing just 119 runs, the bowling unit rose to the challenge, defending the modest total with remarkable style.
Before the T20 World Cup, doubts loomed over Pandya’s fitness and form following a lackluster IPL 2024 season, where he scored 216 runs and took 11 wickets in 14 games. Additionally, his appointment as vice-captain sparked debate among fans and critics alike.
With five wickets in two games, Pandya has silenced his doubters, displaying his match-winning abilities on the grandest stage. Let’s revisit his three finest performances against Pakistan.
#3: 2/24, T20 World Cup 2024
The IND-PAK game in the 2024 T20 World Cup was a gripping contest. Pakistan’s bowling unit bowled out India for a mere 119, leaving few optimistic about an Indian victory. However, Jasprit Bumrah’s crucial dismissal of Babar Azam turned the tide in India’s favor.
Hardik Pandya, after conceding 18 runs in his first two overs, needed to stifle the batters and take crucial wickets. He delivered by bamboozling Fakhar Zaman with a sharp bouncer, resulting in a top-edge catch by Rishabh Pant. In his final over, another short-pitched delivery to Shadab Khan resulted in a similar dismissal, with Pant catching the top edge. Pandya’s figures of 2/24 were pivotal in India’s memorable victory.
#2: 3/30, T20 World Cup 2022
In a high-stakes clash at the MCG during the 2022 T20 World Cup, India sought redemption against Pakistan after a humiliating 10-wicket defeat in 2021. Arshdeep Singh’s early strikes set the tone, but it was Pandya’s strategic use of the longer boundary that proved crucial.
Pandya’s short-pitched deliveries stifled the Pakistani batters, resulting in the wickets of Shadab Khan and Haider Ali, both caught by Suryakumar Yadav at long-on. He also dismissed Mohammad Nawaz with another well-placed short ball, ending with figures of 3/30. Pandya then contributed a vital 40 off 37 balls, forming a 113-run partnership with Virat Kohli (82*) to secure a famous win for India.
#1: 3/8, Asia Cup 2016
Pandya’s performance in the 2016 Asia Cup remains iconic, marking his debut in an India-Pakistan clash. With Pakistan struggling at 32/3 after the powerplay, Pandya was introduced and immediately made an impact.
His over was economical, giving away only three runs before inducing an edge from Shoaib Malik, caught by MS Dhoni. Pandya’s jubilation was palpable as he celebrated with a leap. He continued his dominance, dismissing Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Sami in his final over to restrict Pakistan to a meager 83. Pandya’s incredible figures of 3/8 were instrumental in India’s five-wicket victory.
These three performances highlight Pandya’s ability to rise to the occasion against arch-rivals Pakistan, solidifying his reputation as a match-winner. As India continues its T20 World Cup campaign, fans will hope for more such stellar displays from their vice-captain.
