New Delhi: Hardik Pandya couldn’t have scripted a better return to international cricket. As he returned into India colors after long layoff, the all-rounder announced himself in emphatic fashion during the first T20I against South Africa in Cuttack on Tuesday, producing a knock that flipped the game on its head.

Walking in with India wobbling after the fall of Tilak Varma, Pandya took charge straightaway. There was no feeling-out period, no cautious start. The message was clear from ball one as he launched into the attack mood while facing left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj smashing two sixes in quick succession. One of them, a stunning no-look hit over the ropes, instantly sent the crowd into a frenzy and summed up the confidence he was batting with.

MAXIMUMS x 2⃣! 🔥

Hardik Pandya announces his arrival to the crease in style 😎

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/tiemfwcNPh #TeamIndia | #INDvSA | @hardikpandya7 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/dMCrGJDP4T

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 9, 2025

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