Rajkot, January 3, 2026 - Hardik Pandya delivered a sensational batting display in the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Saturday, scoring a breathtaking century for Baroda against Vidarbha at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, Khandheri in Rajkot. The all-rounder's explosive innings propelled Baroda to a competitive total of 293/9 in their 50 overs.
Pandya's innings was a masterclass in modern limited-overs batting, rescuing his team from a precarious position after Vidarbha's bowlers had initially dominated. Baroda were struggling at 71/5 and later 136/6 when Pandya, who was playing in his first match of the tournament, counter-attacked with remarkable composure and aggression.
The highlight of Pandya's innings came in the 39th over when he went on a stunning rampage against left-arm spinner Parth Rekhade. Before the over, Pandya was batting on 66 off 62 balls. The next six deliveries were dispatched as follows: 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 4. He plundered 34 runs in the over, reaching his century in just 68 balls. The crowd was sent into a frenzy as Pandya reached his maiden List A century in his 119th match.
Pandya's innings showcased his ability to soak up pressure while maintaining an exceptional strike rate. He finished with a commanding 133 off 92 balls, including 11 sixes and eight fours. No other Baroda batter crossed the 30-run mark, highlighting the significance of Pandya's contribution. Vishnu Solanki was the next highest scorer with 26 runs. Pandya was eventually dismissed by Yash Thakur in the 46th over.
Yash Thakur was the pick of the bowlers for Vidarbha, taking four wickets for 64 runs.
Pandya has been in excellent form recently. He had scored two half-centuries in India's 3-1 T20I series win against South Africa. This series marked his return to competitive cricket after recovering from an injury sustained in the Asia Cup against Sri Lanka. He recently became the third Indian bowler to take 100 T20I wickets.
With the BCCI set to announce the squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, Pandya's recent performances have strengthened his case for selection. However, he is likely to be rested for the ODI series against New Zealand, as selectors focus on the upcoming T20 World Cup. The 20-team T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
