Hardik Pandya might not have the most impressive track record as a bowler, but India has always placed significant faith in the 30-year-old’s bowling capabilities. During the 50-over World Cup held at home eight months ago, Pandya served as India’s third seamer whenever he was fit. Such was the confidence in his abilities that the selectors chose to leave out veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, only bringing him in when there were no other alternatives. This decision underscored the belief India had in Pandya’s bowling, trusting him to deliver in crucial situations.

Pandya’s role as a bowler has been consistent since his international debut in 2016. Whenever he has donned the Indian jersey, he has been entrusted with a considerable amount of bowling responsibility. His ability to deliver under pressure and contribute valuable overs has made him a vital component of the team. This trust was evident in the way he was utilized during major tournaments and series, often being relied upon to break partnerships and maintain control in the middle overs.

However, heading into the T20 World Cup, there were legitimate concerns about Pandya’s form with the ball. He had endured a difficult season in the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League, struggling to find his rhythm and effectiveness. This poor run of form raised questions about his readiness and capability to perform at the highest level in the World Cup. Despite these concerns, India’s continued belief in Pandya’s potential as a bowler highlighted their faith in his ability to bounce back and make a significant impact on the global stage.

In-depth Analysis of Hardik’s Spell vs Ireland

Bowling the first over after the powerplay, in which Arshdeep Singh had already removed both Irish openers, Pandya struck within just five balls. He claimed his first wicket of T20WC 2024 with one of the deliveries of the tournament, clean-bowling Lorcan Tucker with an in-nipper that pitched outside off and seamed back sharply through the gate. This was a significant wicket in the context of the game, as Tucker was one of Ireland’s most in-form batters coming into the match, having scored 223 runs in his previous five T20I innings. Tucker’s last five scores were 51, 73, 40, 55, and 4, all achieved in May.

Despite his excellent recent form, Tucker could only manage a sluggish 13-ball 10 on the day. Pandya’s delivery was perfectly executed, exploiting the conditions and Tucker’s hesitation. The importance of this wicket cannot be overstated, as it removed a key player who had been pivotal for Ireland in recent matches. Pandya’s early impact set the tone for the rest of the innings and underscored his value to the Indian bowling attack.

Pandya’s ability to deliver such a crucial wicket early in his spell demonstrated his skill and composure under pressure. This performance was especially significant given the concerns surrounding his form leading into the tournament. By dismissing one of Ireland’s key batters, Pandya provided a massive boost to India’s chances in the match, reaffirming the team’s faith in his bowling abilities.

The first two balls Pandya bowled to Curtis Campher were dispatched for a four and a six, but the right-armer made a perfect comeback on the final ball of his second over. This delivery was arguably as good, if not better, than the one that dismissed Tucker. Pandya slightly pulled back the length while maintaining a similar line around the fifth stump. Campher, attempting to protect his stumps, hung his bat out, but the ball deviated away and caught the outside edge, resulting in a crucial wicket.

Building on this impressive final delivery, Pandya followed up with a wicket maiden in his third over. He dismissed Mark Adair on the first ball of the over, capitalizing on a wild hoick from the batter. Following this, Pandya dominated Barry McCarthy, who faced five consecutive dot balls. Pandya’s strategy was straightforward: tight lines around off stump, which left McCarthy clueless and unable to score.

By the end of his three-over spell, Pandya’s figures were an outstanding 3-1-13-3. His ability to recover quickly from the initial onslaught by Campher and then control the game demonstrated his skill and resilience. This performance was a significant boost for India, showcasing Pandya’s crucial role in their bowling attack and setting a high standard for the rest of the tournament.

Pandya was on track to deliver his best-ever spell in T20Is, shaping what seemed to be a near-perfect day for the team India vice-captain. However, his final over was marred slightly as the duo of Gareth Delany and Josh Little took him apart, scoring 14 runs off his bowling. While the final over proved to be a slight mood dampener, the clash ultimately served as the perfect entry to T20WC 2024 for Pandya with the ball. Despite the late onslaught, Pandya’s earlier contributions showcased his prowess and set a positive tone for India’s campaign in the tournament.