The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy clash between Tamil Nadu and Baroda turned into a batting extravaganza, featuring standout performances from both sides. The match, held at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on Wednesday, November 27, kept fans on the edge of their seats with thrilling displays of power-hitting and composure under pressure.
Batting first, Tamil Nadu set the tone with a solid start, thanks to Narayan Jagadeesan’s brisk 57 off 32 balls. His aggressive knock laid a strong foundation for Tamil Nadu’s innings. Contributions from Shahrukh Khan, who added a quickfire 39 off 25 deliveries, and Vijay Shankar, who stole the show with an electrifying 42 off just 22 balls, pushed Tamil Nadu to an imposing total of 221/6.
WATCH – Vijay Shankar’s Power Show: Smashes Hardik Pandya for Three Sixes
Vijay Shankar’s incredible hitting included three consecutive sixes off Hardik Pandya in one over, showcasing his impeccable timing and clean striking. Pandya, on the other hand, endured a tough day with the ball, conceding 44 runs in three overs without taking a wicket.
Chasing a daunting target, Baroda’s innings started shakily as openers Mitesh Patel (18 off 11) and Ninad Rathva (29 off 19) failed to convert their starts. However, the game turned dramatically when Hardik Pandya walked in. Redeeming himself after a forgettable bowling spell, Pandya played a sensational knock, smashing 69 off just 30 deliveries.
ALSO READ: “He could have a really big series” – Rahul Dravid on Virat Kohli
His innings, studded with four boundaries and seven towering sixes, was complemented by Bhanu Pania’s explosive 42 off 20 balls. Together, they shifted the momentum, with Pandya’s finishing prowess taking Baroda to victory on the last ball of the match.
Victory for Baroda! 👏
What a finish 🔥
A last-ball 4⃣ from Atit Sheth seals the win!
Hardik Pandya lit up Indore with 69-run blitz as Baroda chased down 222 against Tamil Nadu 🙌
The celebrations say it all 🥳
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/DDt2Ar20h9#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/A6tr6uDazl
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) November 27, 2024
The thrilling three-wicket win highlighted Pandya’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, making the encounter a memorable chapter in the tournament.