Internet Desk: India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya played a knock of 93 runs besides taking two wickets to give the hosts some breathing space against South Africa on Saturday.
On a fast track where all the Indian batsmen fell very cheaply, Hardik played a counter-attacking innings which wasn’t expected by anyone.
With his hitting abilities, he smacked the fire breathing pace battery of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, Kagiso Rabada and Vernon Philander through all parts of the ground.
With the help of India’s star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who played a useful knock of 25 runs from 86 deliveries, Pandya helped India to come out of danger. The two added precious 99 runs for the ninth wicket to give Virat Kohli & Co. some hope in the match.
After Pandya’s fearless innings the twitter was in all praise for the future star of Indian cricket.
Intent makes such a big difference. So proud of Hardik for a really special counter-attacking innings.
Hope the bowlers do something special in the second innings.#SAvIND— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 6, 2018
Admire performance from players when the team needs it the most.Hardik’s & Bhuvi’s were such performances today. Bowlers will need to be disciplined and patient tomorrow. #SAvsIND
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 6, 2018
One’s stature as a player increases when one scores overseas and against an attack comprising Steyn, Rabada, Morkel & Philander when everyone else has struggled, Hardik Pandya shows how it is done. Privilege to watch that 93.
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) January 6, 2018
Some players make things happen. More attitude than anything else. Pandya suggests he could be that kind of player.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) January 6, 2018
Be it for Mumbai Indians during the IPL, for team India in CT 2017 finals or now, Hardik Pandya has emerged out to be his team’s life boat. Hail Pandya!#SAvIND pic.twitter.com/NSyRWnKmZh
— AkShAtA (@MenInBlueDvotee) January 6, 2018
Hardik Pandya facing South African fast bowlers. #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/MiG22vFF3y
— Sunil- The Cricketer (@1sInto2s) January 6, 2018
hardik pandya waiting for keshav maharaj to bowl #IndvsSA pic.twitter.com/STUASygI93
— shrikant kirwale (@shrikantkirwal1) January 6, 2018
SA: mere paas bounce hai, pace hai, movement hai, world class fielding hai, home conditions hai, tumhare paas kya hai?
IND: pic.twitter.com/HMYDlgPABr— cricBC (@cricBC) January 6, 2018