IND vs SA: Hardik Pandya's whirlwind knock propels India to mammoth total in series decider in Ahmedabad

Hardik Pandya lives his life on the fast lane. The high-flying cricketer, whose career was on the brink after a threatening back injury, is known for his fighting spirit, and he displayed it to perfection during his swashbuckling half-century against South Africa in the fifth and final Twenty20 contest in Ahmedabad on Friday. 

His fifty came off just 16 balls - the second fastest for India in the format, propelling the hosts to a gigantic 231 in a high-voltage clash with the series hanging in the balance.

Pandya was at home in familiar surroundings, and the former Gujarat Titans skipper used his knowledge of the pitch to good use to play with freedom. The start given by openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma ensured that there was no pressure on the all-rounder, who was once hailed as India’s next Kapil Dev.

Pandya’s timing was as precise as his ultra-luxury Richard Mille watch. The collection of his shots was more expensive and valuable and was priceless. Pandya continues to haunt South Africa, and the Proteas bring out the best in him.

After delivering the last over to lead India to a narrow win in the final of the 2024 Twenty20 World Cup in Barbados, Pandya excelled this time with the bat. His 63 off 25 balls contained an equal number of fours and sixes, five in total.

What is more important is the 105-run partnership he had with Tillak Varma for the fourth wicket in just 44 balls. That will prove the difference in the outcome of the contest.

Pandya is a true fighter. After breaking down with a back injury in Dubai during the Asia Cup, the all-rounder not only came back stronger but also fought his way to bowl the overs with his medium pace, silencing his critics once again.

Following his return to Mumbai Indians after leading Gujarat to their maiden title win in their inaugural year and then to the final in the second year, Pandya had to cope with plenty of ire from the fans during the long Indian Premier League season.

But nothing deterred him, and just like the way he has overcome multiple injuries, Pandya silently coped with the criticism. Now, once again, on top of the gear, Pandya is in a prime position to lead India’s defence in the Twenty20 World Cup, to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February.