Hardik Pandya’s return to competitive cricket has begun on a difficult note in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) as the Baroda all-rounder conceded 26 runs in his first two overs against Punjab on Tuesday. Bowling with the new ball at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Hardik struggled for rhythm and control, leaking boundaries early in the innings.
Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma took him on immediately, smashing 20 off just 6 balls and racing to 48* off 16 deliveries. Punjab reached 77/1 in just 5.3 overs, with Hardik’s economy rate shooting up to 13.00 in his two-over spell.
Baroda handed the ball to Hardik with hopes of an impactful opening burst, but Punjab’s top order showed clear intent, putting pressure from the first over. Hardik bowled two overs, gave away 26 runs, and has not returned to the attack yet.
A poor start for the Baroda skipper, who will be looking to bounce back strongly in the later stages of the innings.
More updates to follow.
