Hardik Pandya Stars as India Post 175 Against South Africa in First T20I

Cuttack, Dec 2025 : Hardik Pandya delivered a masterclass performance to guide India to 175/6 against South Africa in the opening T20I of the five-match series at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. The all-rounder’s unbeaten 59 anchored the innings, lifting the hosts after early setbacks.

Shubman Gill returned to the squad after injury, and much was expected from the opening batsman. However, Lungi Ngidi struck early, dismissing Gill for just 4 runs off two balls in the first over. South Africa doubled their delight when Ngidi removed Suryakumar Yadav in the third over, leaving India struggling at 2/2.

Captain Rishabh Pant started aggressively, hitting a six and a four, including his trademark ‘supla’ shot, before being caught by Aiden Markram at mid-on. Openers Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma steadied the innings during the powerplay, taking India to 40/2 in six overs.

Abhishek showed promise but was dismissed by Lutho Sipamla soon after the powerplay, providing South Africa with a crucial breakthrough. The middle overs saw a slower run rate as Varma and Axar Patel struggled to find boundaries, rotating strike with singles and doubles. Varma did hit an 89-meter six off Anrich Nortje in the 10th over, but his knock ended at 26 from 32 balls, failing to convert his start into a bigger score.

Axar Patel played a useful supporting role, forming small partnerships with Varma and Pandya, but it was Pandya who dominated proceedings. Displaying confidence and composure, he struck six fours and four sixes, ensuring India recovered from 50/3 to post a competitive total. Brief cameos from Shivam Dube (11) and Jitesh Sharma (10) added valuable runs in the final overs.

On the bowling front, South Africa received a brilliant performance from Lungi Ngidi, who claimed 3/31, while Lutho Sipamla (2/38) and Donovan Ferreira (1 wicket) chipped in. Marco Jansen impressed in the field with some spectacular catches, although he went wicketless.

India’s innings was characterised by resilient batting under pressure, particularly Pandya’s calmness in crucial phases, which allowed the team to shift momentum after early dismissals. The 20 overs showcased a mix of aggressive strokes, timely singles, and crucial partnerships that prevented South Africa from gaining early control.

The match sets up an exciting contest, with India posting a competitive total on the board and the onus now on the Proteas to chase 175. Pandya’s innings will be remembered as the backbone of India’s innings, showing why he is a match-winner in the T20 format.

Brief Scores: India 175/6 in 20 overs (Hardik Pandya 59*, Tilak Varma 26; Lungi Ngidi 3-31, Lutho Sipamla 2-38) vs South Africa.