Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya announced his return to competitive cricket in spectacular fashion, playing a match-winning knock to power Baroda to a record run-chase in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26. In his first match after a two-month injury layoff, Pandya's unbeaten 77 runs from just 42 deliveries guided Baroda to their highest-ever T20 chase, successfully hunting down a daunting target of 223 set by Punjab.
A Comeback Knock for the Ages
Walking out to bat at number four in the eighth over of the chase on Wednesday, Hardik Pandya provided the finishing touches to a platform set by openers Vishnu Solanki and Shashwat Rawat. The 32-year-old progressively accelerated his innings, unleashing his full range of shots at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal, Hyderabad. His explosive innings was studded with seven fours and four massive sixes.
The climax of his knock was nothing short of cinematic. With the game in the balance, Pandya took on left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar and bowler Gurnoor Brar, smashing three consecutive sixes to seal a dramatic victory for Baroda. This chase of 223 surpassed their previous best of 222, achieved against Tamil Nadu last season.
Punjab's Strong Total and Baroda's Bowling Struggles
Earlier in the match, Punjab, known as white-ball powerhouses, posted a formidable total of 222 for eight in their 20 overs. Captain Abhishek Sharma led the charge with a belligerent half-century. Hardik Pandya, who opened the bowling attack for Baroda, had a tough day with the ball, conceding 52 runs in his four overs while managing to take the wicket of Anmolpreet Singh.
This round four encounter was Pandya's first match since representing India in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan in Dubai in September. He had been sidelined with a left quadricep injury, which forced him to miss the subsequent white-ball tour of Australia and the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. His rehabilitation took place at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, where he reported on October 15.
Significance of the Win and Road Ahead
The victory was crucial for Baroda's campaign in the domestic T20 tournament, as they had managed only one win from their first three matches. Pandya's heroics injected much-needed momentum into their season.
The match also featured a moment of fan frenzy when a spectator ran onto the field to take a selfie with Hardik Pandya, highlighting his immense popularity, before being escorted away by security personnel.
This successful comeback at the domestic level paves the way for Pandya's return to the Indian national team. He is now slated to make his international comeback in the forthcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa.
