Hardik Pandya Turns His Dismissal Into a Viral Moment With Ravi Bishnoi Hug

Hardik Pandya delivered a timely reminder of his all-round prowess in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on Thursday, bowling a miserly spell of 4-0-16-1 for Baroda against Gujarat and providing India a much-needed boost ahead of the T20I series against South Africa. The star all-rounder dismissed Gujarat opener and captain Urvil Patel at a crucial juncture, maintaining impeccable control and reinforcing his value to the national side amid the ongoing ODI bowling crisis.

With India’s attack leaking runs in the first two ODIs against the Proteas, Hardik’s disciplined performance offered reassurance that his experience and variations remain sharp. His return to peak fitness and rhythm in domestic cricket has been closely watched, especially after a mixed 2025 season, and Thursday’s outing further solidified his case for a pivotal role in the upcoming white-ball assignments.

A heartwarming moment from the match also stole the show when Hardik, chasing a modest 74, attempted to finish the game with a big hit off leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi only to hole out to long-off for 10. As Bishnoi launched into his trademark wide-arm celebration, Hardik playfully mirrored the gesture before walking over for a warm hug, a viral clip that lit up social media and highlighted the camaraderie between the two Indian teammates.

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Baroda completed the chase comfortably, but Hardik’s economical spell and sportsmanlike moment dominated headlines. Fans hailed the all-rounder’s form and fitness, with many seeing the performance as a statement of intent ahead of the South Africa T20Is and the IPL 2026 auction later this month.

As India grapples with bowling concerns in limited-overs cricket, Hardik Pandya’s timely return to rhythm has provided selectors and fans alike with a significant boost at a critical juncture.

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