
Hardik Pandya delivered a spectacular all-round performance in the fifth and final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad, powering India to a 30-run victory and a 3-1 series win. Pandya’s explosive batting saw him smash 63 runs off just 25 deliveries, featuring five fours and five sixes, helping India post a commanding total of 231/5. He reached his half-century in a mere 16 balls, becoming India’s second-fastest half-centurion in T20Is.
Beyond his batting heroics, Pandya contributed with the ball, dismissing the dangerous Dewald Brevis. His commanding presence and match-winning contribution drew immense praise from cricket legends. Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn lauded Pandya's mental dominance, comparing his on-field aura to that of a superhero, highlighting that the all-rounder is operating at a level above his peers. This performance confirms Pandya's crucial role as a power-hitter and key bowler for the national side heading into major tournaments.

“Hardik was fantastic—he’s transcended sportsman into celebrity territory, walking out like a superhero in a scripted movie plot where nobody alters his plan. It’s not a bad attitude; it’s pure dominance, an aura where nobody else can match what he does.”
Best run at Middle Order position in IPL 2025
| Rank | Player | Team | runs |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Chennai Super Kings | 3416 runs | |
#2 | Rajasthan Royals | 2731 runs | |
#3 | Delhi Capitals | 2407 runs | |
| #4 | Mumbai Indians | 1564 runs | |
| #5 | Delhi Capitals | 1486 runs |
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In an official statement, Sri Lanka Cricket stated the reason behind the decision, stating that Malinga’s role will be instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness of the country’s fast bowlers, especially in the shortest format of the game.
Editorial Team

Yes, it's confirmed that Hardik will turn out for Baroda in their Vijay Hazare games on January 3 and 8, which are against Vidarbha and Chandigarh. He's not there for the clash against Jammu & Kashmir on January 6, as he needs ample break to manage his load in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup.
All-Rounder

India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and his wife Devisha Shetty visited the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala on Vaikuntha Ekadashi. The couple participated in sacred rituals, including passing through the Vaikuntha Dwaram, and received blessings from temple priests.
Batter

“Hardik was fantastic—he’s transcended sportsman into celebrity territory, walking out like a superhero in a scripted movie plot where nobody alters his plan. It’s not a bad attitude; it’s pure dominance, an aura where nobody else can match what he does.”