“Told My Partner I’d Step Out”: Hardik Pandya On First-Ball Six In 5th T20I

Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya revealed that his first-ball six in the fifth T20I against South Africa was planned in advance. He mentioned that he had informed his batting partner beforehand that he would step down the track on the very first delivery and aim for a six. India defeated South Africa by 30 runs in the series-deciding fifth T20I at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday, December 19.

Batting first, the hosts posted 231/5 in their 20 overs. Tilak Varma led the scoring with 73 off 42 balls, while Pandya contributed a rapid 63 off just 25 deliveries. In his explosive innings, Pandya hit five fours and five sixes. He launched his knock in spectacular fashion by stepping down the pitch to dispatch Corbin Bosch’s opening delivery over long off for six.

During the post-match presentation, the all-rounder shared insights into his approach and mindset.

“Today I just felt it. I told my partner as well that I am going to step out the first ball and try to hit a six. I was quite sure that it is going to come true,” the 32-year-old said.

After starting his innings with a six, Pandya targeted George Linde in the following over, smashing two fours and two sixes, with one of the sixes traveling an impressive 97 meters. Reflecting on his aggressive display, the Indian star said:

“The situation was tailor-made. At the same point of time, I backed myself. He bowled well against me in Chandigarh. Today, I had the opportunity, so wanted to take him down.”

“Never played for MoM awards”- Hardik Pandya after 5th IND vs SA T20I

Although several players delivered notable performances in the game, Hardik Pandya was named Player of the Match. Reflecting on the accolade, the seasoned all-rounder remarked thoughtfully:

“I have never played cricket to win Man of the Match awards. I have played the sport to win games and it’s always exciting to win games when you do well.”

Discussing his ongoing struggles with injuries and fitness, Pandya expressed his determination to return stronger each time. He said:

“Irrespective of how many times you are out, you always try to come and make a big impact – come bigger, better and stronger. That has always been the motto. The journey keeps going on – the preparation, the planning, the hard work never stops.”