Pandya on fire, bowlers sizzle as India hand Proteas heavy defeat

All rounder slams 59 on return as hosts dismiss South Africa in 12.3 overs to win first T20I by 101 runs

- Somshuvra Laha

Hardik Pandya plays a shot during the 1st T20 match against South Africa at Barsabati Stadium in Cuttack.

(BCCI)

Hello Hardik Pandya, good to have you back.

That 42-ball 77 for Baroda last week set up some anticipation alright. And Pandya proved that it was no fluke by blazing his way to an unbeaten 28-ball 59 that propelled India to 175/6 in the first T20I against South Africa at Cuttack on Tuesday. To back that up with a first ball wobble-seam dismissal of David Miller was just the kind of stuff you sign up for when the Pandya show is on.

The umpire wasn't sure, though Miller looking back at the wicketkeeper was a giveaway that he had edged the ball. There were two noises, and replays revealed a thick inside edge before the ball almost died on Jitesh Sharma who had to dive forward to complete the catch. The ball was skidding, but this one surprised Miller with its movement and slower pace. Just the sort of delivery that can derail an innings altogether, as South Africa crashed to a 101-run defeat after being bowled out for only 74.