Tamil Nadu vs Baroda Highlights | Hardik Pandya’s Heroics Power Baroda to 3 Wicket Win | SMAT 2024

In a pulsating Group B clash of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium, Baroda triumphed over Tamil Nadu by three wickets, chasing down a mammoth target of 222 on the final delivery of the match. The thrilling encounter showcased explosive batting, nail-biting moments, and standout individual performances, keeping the packed stadium on edge until the very end.

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

Tamil Nadu Sets a Challenging Target

Winning the toss, Baroda opted to bowl first on a batting-friendly surface. Tamil Nadu's innings was anchored by opener N. Jagadeesan, who played a sparkling knock of 57 off 32 balls, laced with three sixes and five fours. Captain M. Shahrukh Khan added a crucial 39 runs off 25 balls, while Vijay Shankar’s unbeaten 42 off just 22 balls ensured Tamil Nadu reached an imposing total of 221/6 in their 20 overs.

Baroda’s bowlers struggled to contain Tamil Nadu's aggressive approach, with Lukman Meriwala emerging as the most successful bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 41 runs in his four overs.

Hardik Pandya’s Heroics Drive Baroda’s Chase

Chasing a daunting target, Baroda’s innings had a rocky start, losing Mitesh Patel early. However, Hardik Pandya turned the tide with an electrifying 69 off just 30 balls, featuring seven towering sixes and four boundaries. Pandya’s 30-run blitz in a single over off left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh marked the turning point of the game. His explosive knock not only set the tone for the chase but also provided Baroda the momentum needed in a high-pressure game.

Bhanu Pania contributed a steady 42, while Atit Sheth held his nerve in the final moments, smashing a boundary off the last ball to seal the victory for Baroda at 222/7.

Varun Chakravarthy Shines for Tamil Nadu

Despite ending on the losing side, Tamil Nadu’s Varun Chakravarthy delivered a stellar performance with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets for 43 runs. His spin troubled Baroda’s middle order, briefly halting their momentum.

Turning Points

Hardik Pandya’s destructive batting, particularly his assault on Gurjapneet Singh, turned the match in Baroda’s favor. Tamil Nadu’s inability to capitalize on Pandya’s dismissal in the final over also contributed to their narrow loss.

Match Summary

• Match: Tamil Nadu vs Baroda, Group B, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024
• Date: November 27, 2024
• Venue: Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore
• Result: Baroda won by 3 wickets

Tamil Nadu Innings: 221/6 (20 overs)

• N. Jagadeesan: 57 (32), Vijay Shankar: 42* (22)
• Lukman Meriwala: 3/41

Baroda Innings: 222/7 (20 overs)

• Hardik Pandya: 69 (30), Bhanu Pania: 42 (33)
• Varun Chakravarthy: 3/43

Baroda’s victory solidifies their position as serious contenders in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. The team’s resilience under pressure and Hardik Pandya’s unmatched brilliance stood out as defining factors in this enthralling contest. Tamil Nadu, despite the loss, remains a formidable side and will look to bounce back in their next encounter.