New Delhi, 03 January (H.S.): India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya notched up his first-ever List-A century on Saturday, propelling Baroda to a fighting total against Vidarbha in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. The explosive innings came off just 68 balls, featuring six boundaries and eight towering sixes, transforming a precarious situation into a match-winning platform.

Dramatic Rescue Mission

Pandya walked in at No. 7 when Baroda were reeling at 71 for 5 in the 20th over, their top order dismantled by Vidarbha's bowlers. Displaying remarkable composure initially, he reached his half-century off 44 balls before unleashing a ferocious assault, converting it into three figures off the next 24 deliveries. His 92-ball 133 included 11 sixes and eight fours, ending his side's innings on a high note.

Historic 34-Run Over Seals Spectacle

The defining moment arrived in the 39th over bowled by Vidarbha's left-arm spinner Parth Rakhede, which Pandya pulverized for 34 runs—five sixes and a four—marking the third-most expensive over in Vijay Hazare Trophy history. This blistering counterattack not only revived Baroda but showcased Pandya's ability to dominate spin in the middle overs.

Career Milestone After Long Hiatus

This century marked Pandya's first appearance for Baroda in the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare season and his first List-A match since March 2025 during the Champions Trophy. Across 119 List-A games—94 ODIs for India, eight for India A, and 17 for Baroda—he has now amassed over 2,300 runs. His previous best was an unbeaten 92 against Australia in Canberra in 2020.

Pandya's return to domestic 50-over cricket underscores his versatility, proving once again his match-turning prowess under pressure.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar