Hardik Pandya produced a breathtaking late assault during India’s innings in the fifth T20I against South Africa, tearing apart George Linde in a 27-run over that completely shifted the momentum.
The onslaught came in the 14th over, where Hardik showcased a mix of power, timing, and audacity. He began the over by launching a no-look six over mid-wicket, followed by another towering six with a lofted cover drive played off the back foot. The South African bowler struggled to find answers as Hardik continued to access both sides of the ground with ease.
A flat-batted pull wide of long-on and a drilled four through cover compounded Linde’s misery, as Hardik raced to 31 runs off just 7 deliveries, striking multiple boundaries with minimal foot movement and exceptional bat speed.
The over not only swung the scoring rate sharply in India’s favour but also visibly rattled the South African fielding unit, forcing a brief on-field discussion among the Proteas. Tilak Varma also joined the act, contributing a six in the same over as India capitalised on the pressure.
Hardik’s explosive cameo underlined his role as a finisher, combining composure with aggressive intent at a crucial phase of the innings.
