Hardik Pandya delivered a spectacular performance for Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring a blistering century against Vidarbha at Niranjan Shah Stadium, Khandheri. The 32-year-old all-rounder went from 66 to 100 in just six balls, finishing with 133 runs off 92 balls, including 8 fours and 11 sixes.
Hardik’s innings turned the game in Baroda’s favor. When he was batting on 66 off 62 balls, he unleashed a series of aggressive strokes, hitting 34 runs in a single over bowled by Parth Rekhade. In just four minutes, he reached his century while maintaining an incredible strike rate. He continued to attack even after reaching three figures before being dismissed in the 46th over, helping Baroda post 293/9 in 50 overs.
Baroda’s Batting Effort
Pandya’s innings was the highlight of the Baroda lineup, as no other batter crossed the 30-run mark. Vishnu Solanki, batting at number 8, was the second-highest scorer with 26 runs. For Vidarbha, Yash Thakur was the standout bowler, taking four wickets for 64 runs.
Recent Form and Return from Injury
Hardik has been in exceptional form recently. He scored two half-centuries in India’s 3-1 T20I series win against South Africa, earning praise from Proteas coach Shukri Conrad, who called him a key difference-maker. This series also marked Hardik’s return to competitive cricket following an injury in the Asia Cup against Sri Lanka. He recently became only the third Indian bowler to take 100 T20I wickets.
Upcoming Matches
Hardik is likely to be rested for India’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11, as selectors focus on the upcoming T20 World Cup. The 20-team T20 World Cup, scheduled from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka, will see India aiming to defend its title on home soil.
