Watch – Hardik Pandya Smashes 37-Ball Century To Gear Up For IPL 2020

The swashbuckling all-rounder Hardik Pandya on March 3 (Tuesday) smacked a 37-ball century to gear up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL). With this hundred, Pandya has made strong claims for his inclusion in the Team India squad for the upcoming three-match One Day International series against South Africa. 

Meanwhile, Pandya made a return to action after undergoing surgery on his back which has been troubling him since the 2018 Asia Cup. He was ruled out of the ICC World Cup 2019 midway owing to the same injury which aggravated. Since then, Hardik Pandya has been in and out of the game until returning to action in the DY Patil Cup. 

Read More: Hardik Pandya displays his fitness progress ahead of IPL 2020

Hardik getting into the groove

He was supposed to return during India A’s tour of New Zealand; however, failed to clear the fitness test. The all-rounder from Baroda worked tirelessly at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) to regain fitness and recently shared a picture of him to show his body transformation. On his return, Hardik Pandya has already set the stage on fire with both bat and ball. 

On March 3 (Tuesday), the 26-year-old struck a 37-ball century to take everyone by storm and announce himself for the big stage. Playing for Reliance 1 against CAG in a Group C encounter of the 16th DY Patil T20 Cup, Hardik scored 105 runs off just 39 balls, helping his side post 252 for five in 20 overs. During his 39-ball stay at the crease, Hardik smashed eight fours and 10 staggering sixes to entertain the crowd. 

Read More: IPL 2020: All you need to know about the tournament

Speaking of the proceedings, Hardik Pandya seemed extremely happy with the way he is shaping up after being away from the game for almost six months.

“It’s fantastic (platform) for someone like me. I have been away for almost six months. This is my second game after a long time. For me, it is a good platform to see where I am currently and test my body. I am really happy with the way things have gone,” Hardik said. 

Watch the video here: