Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Dec 2: India all-rounder Hardik Pandya made a powerful comeback to competitive cricket, smashing an unbeaten 77 off 42 balls as Baroda chased down a stiff 223-run target to defeat Punjab and secure their second straight win in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on Tuesday.

The match marked Hardik’s first appearance in nearly three months following an injury he suffered during the Asia Cup Super Fours clash against Sri Lanka. The setback had ruled him out of the ODI and T20I series against Australia and also kept him out of contention for the ongoing ODIs in South Africa.

After completing his rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and receiving Return-to-Play clearance, Hardik joined the Baroda squad—led by his brother Krunal Pandya—for the domestic T20 tournament.

Punjab posted an imposing 222/8, powered by half-centuries from captain Abhishek Sharma and Anmolpreet Singh. Contributions from Naman Dhir (39 off 28) and brief cameos by Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and Sanvir Singh (all scoring 16) helped lift the total. For Baroda, Raj Limbani delivered the most effective spell, while Hardik conceded 52 runs and took the wicket of Anmolpreet.

Baroda’s reply began strongly with a 66-run opening stand between Vishnu Solanki and Shashwat Rawat, but two quick dismissals brought Shivalik Sharma and Hardik Pandya together. Their 109-run partnership for the third wicket shifted the momentum decisively in Baroda’s favour. Shivalik retired out, yet Hardik powered on, striking seven fours and four sixes to steer Baroda home with five balls remaining.

Hardik was named Player of the Match for his commanding innings—an effort that strengthens his case for an international comeback. The selection committee is expected to announce India’s squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa later this week.