If you are an umpire standing in the middle when Hardik Pandya is on strike, staying alert is no longer optional. The Indian all-rounder continues to underline why he remains one of the most valuable players in T20I cricket, producing yet another explosive display in the first India vs New Zealand T20I in Nagpur. At 32, Pandya looks fitter, stronger, and more destructive than ever.

Hardik walked out to bat with India well placed at 126/3 and made an instant impact. Facing his very first delivery from New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner, he unleashed a ferocious shot that raced to the boundary.

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The ball nearly caused an injury scare for both Santner and the on-field umpire before flying past them, a moment that summed up the sheer power Pandya brings to the crease. Despite Santner getting a hand to it, the ball still crossed the rope, highlighting the force behind the strike.

First ball, step out, and boom .💥

Hardik Pandya 😭🔥 pic.twitter.com/lYd4wx98TP

— ` (@wokenupkohli) January 21, 2026

India had already laid a strong foundation thanks to opener Abhishek Sharma, who tore into the New Zealand attack with a blistering 84 off just 34 balls. Hardik’s arrival only added more momentum to the innings, reinforcing India’s dominance in the middle overs.

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Looking ahead to the T20 World Cup 2026, Hardik Pandya remains a crucial piece in India’s puzzle. His ability to influence games with both bat and ball gives the team a perfect balance, especially in high-pressure situations. Since returning from injury, the Mumbai Indians skipper has shown significant improvement in fitness and core strength, which has directly translated into cleaner, longer hitting. If this form continues, Pandya will be one of India’s biggest match-winners on the global stage.