In a thrilling encounter at the New Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior on Sunday, October 6, Indian cricket fans witnessed a spectacular performance by the dynamic all-rounder Hardik Pandya. He played a pivotal role in India’s emphatic victory over Bangladesh in the first T20 International, as the Men in Blue effortlessly chased down the modest target of 128 runs. The chase was completed in a record 11.5 overs, making this match a memorable one for the home team and its supporters.
Hardik Pandya, known for his flair and aggressive style, delivered an extraordinary innings, scoring an unbeaten 39 runs off just 16 deliveries. His innings were studded with five boundaries and two massive sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate the opposition bowlers with ease. One of the most talked-about moments during his knock was a six that catapulted India to victory, launched over the cow corner from Taskin Ahmed’s bowling, ensuring the win with 49 balls left in the innings.
Among the highlights of Pandya’s innings was a mesmerising no-look four that has since become the talk of the cricketing world. In the 12th over, which turned out to be the concluding over of the match, Taskin Ahmed bowled a short-pitched delivery directed at Pandya’s body. The Indian all-rounder executed an exquisite ramp shot over the wicketkeeper’s head, seemingly without even looking at the ball’s trajectory. The shot, infused with confidence and skill, drew gasps of admiration from onlookers and left the audience in awe of his prowess.
The now-viral clip of his no-look four has taken social media platforms by storm. Fans from across the globe have been sharing and commenting on the footage, celebrating Pandya’s iconic shot. The Punjab Kings, an IPL franchise, humorously remarked on X, “Breakfast mein ye AURA aur SWAG khate hai!” which roughly translates to “He eats aura and swag for breakfast!”.
. Other users chimed in with their praises, noting the ease with which Pandya executed the no-look uppercut and complimenting his stylish display.
Pandya himself joined in the social media revelry post-victory, sharing a picture of his shot on his profile. Accompanying the image, he expressed his satisfaction with India’s performance, posting, “Just the start we wanted! Enjoying every moment out there. Thanks for the love Gwalior.”
India’s triumph over Bangladesh, completed with 49 deliveries to spare, stands as the country’s largest victory margin in terms of balls remaining while pursuing targets in excess of 100 runs in T20 Internationals. This achievement surpasses their previous record of victory with 41 balls left against Zimbabwe in 2016 when chasing a total of 100. The dominant win in Gwalior now tops India’s list of rapid T20I chases, followed by their performances against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in earlier years.
Record for Most Balls Remaining for India Chasing a 100-Plus Total in T20Is:
1. 49 balls left vs Bangladesh in Gwalior, 2024 (Target: 128)
2. 41 balls left vs Zimbabwe in Harare, 2016 (Target: 100)
3. 31 balls left vs Afghanistan in Gros Islet, 2010 (Target: 116)
4. 30 balls left vs Zimbabwe in Harare, 2010 (Target: 112)
The Indian cricket team’s triumph in Gwalior, marked by Pandya’s electrifying performance and India’s dominant chase, has set the tone for the series against Bangladesh. Fans and analysts alike continue to revel in the star all-rounder’s commanding display and look forward to more such exciting cricketing moments as the series progresses. Hardik Pandya, through his masterful finish and breathtaking shots, has once again proved why he is considered one of the modern greats of the game, bringing joy to millions with his flair and unyielding confidence on the field.
