SMAT 2024 [WATCH]: Hardik Pandya brutally destroys Parvez Sultan in a 28-run over during Baroda vs Tripura game

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya delivered a spectacular performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 on Friday, November 29, lighting up the Holkar Stadium in Indore with a blistering 47 off just 23 balls. Representing Baroda, Hardik’s innings proved decisive against Tripura, as he single-handedly dismantled the opposition’s bowling attack to secure a comfortable win. His knock, laced with three boundaries and five colossal sixes, came at a staggering strike rate of 204.35. Among the highlights was his unforgettable assault in the 10th over, where he smashed four sixes and a boundary off left-arm spinner Parvez Sultan, leaving fans and bowlers alike in awe.

A masterclass in power-hitting by Hardik Pandya: The 10th over carnage

The 10th over of Baroda’s chase turned into a spectacle of raw power and audacity as Hardik took on Sultan, hammering him for 28 runs. The over began with a thunderous six over the long-off region, setting the tone for the onslaught. On the third ball, Hardik unleashed another back-foot missile, sending the ball sailing over long-off once more.

With Sultan already under pressure, Hardik shifted gears further on the fourth delivery, clearing the deep square-leg boundary with a monstrous pull shot. The bowler’s agony didn’t end there – on the fifth ball, Hardik pierced the field with a crisp boundary. He then rounded off the over with yet another towering six, lofting the ball effortlessly over long-on to complete a sensational display of batting dominance. This single over not only decimated Sultan’s figures but also turned the tide firmly in Baroda’s favour, reducing the required runs significantly and showcasing why Pandya remains one of the most feared hitters in cricket.

Here’s the video:

Hardik Pandya was on fire again 🔥🔥

The Baroda all-rounder went berserk smashing 6⃣,6⃣,6⃣,4⃣,6⃣ in an over on his way to a whirlwind 47(23) against Tripura 🙌🙌#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank

Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/1WPFeVRTum pic.twitter.com/xhgWG63y9g

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) November 29, 2024

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya takes CSK’s new recruit Gurjapneet Singh to the cleaners in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Hardik’s knock and Baroda’s victory over Tripura

Earlier in the game, Tripura, batting first, posted a modest total of 109/9 in their 20 overs. Captain Mandeep Singh top-scored with a steady 50 off 40 balls, while Akash Singh and Krunal Pandya shone with the ball for Baroda, claiming three and two wickets respectively. Chasing 110, Baroda’s innings had a shaky start with early dismissals, but Hardik’s blitzkrieg in the middle overs turned the game on its head. He showcased a fearless approach, making a mockery of the bowling attack, and his knock ensured that Baroda coasted to victory in just 11 overs. Mitesh Patel also played a handy role, remaining unbeaten on 37 off 24 balls.

Hardik’s stellar form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Pandya’s incredible innings against Tripura adds to his impressive run in the SMAT 2024. In four matches, he has amassed 231 runs at an astounding average of 115.50 and an explosive strike rate of 211.92. His tally includes two half-centuries and a flurry of sixes that have left bowlers helpless. Additionally, he has contributed with the ball, bowling 11 overs and taking two wickets. This performance reinforces Hardik’s reputation as a match-winner and highlights his readiness to excel in high-pressure situations, both in domestic cricket and on the international stage.

Also WATCH: Vijay Shankar hits a bullseye to run out Hardik Pandya in last ball thriller between Baroda and Tamil Nadu