Baroda and Tamil Nadu delivered a thrilling contest in the third round of the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament at Holkar Stadium in Indore on November 27. Hardik Pandya’s explosive 20-ball fifty propelled Baroda to a remarkable chase of 222 runs, keeping them unbeaten in Group B with three wins from three matches.

Baroda found themselves struggling at 152 for 6 in the 16th over when Hardik Pandya joined Raj Limbani. With 70 runs needed off the last 26 balls, Hardik unleashed his power hitting, smashing four consecutive sixes and a boundary off left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh, scoring 29 runs in the 17th over. His innings was marked by sixes that showcased his ability to clear the boundary with ease.

Although Hardik was run out for 69 off just 30 balls after a brilliant direct hit from Vijay Shankar, his efforts brought Baroda close to victory. Mohammed held his nerve in the final over, with Atit Sheth sealing the win with a boundary off the last ball.

Earlier, Vijay Shankar had impressed with a quickfire 42 from 22 balls, helping Tamil Nadu post a competitive total. Hardik’s exceptional form continues as he aims to make an impact in the domestic circuit ahead of the IPL.