"Highest total, most sixes, so many records broken" - Hardik Pandya reacts after Baroda create history in SMAT 2024
Ace all-rounder Hardik Pandya penned a note for his Baroda teammates after they created history in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. Baroda scripted history by beating Sikkim by 263 runs on Thursday, December 5, at the Emerald High School Ground in Indore.
Led by Krunal Pandya, Baroda posted 349/5 in their 20 overs, riding on a 51-ball unbeaten 134 from Bhanu Pania. A few more batters also chipped in with half-centuries.
This remarkable feat made Baroda the first team to surpass the 300-run mark in the history of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. It is also the highest T20 total in the history of T20 cricket. Zimbabwe previously held the record, having scored 344 against Gambia earlier this year.
Following a stellar performance by the players, senior Baroda all-rounder Hardik Pandya hailed his teammates. Taking to Instagram, he wrote:
"Highest total, most sixes, so many records broken. Well done team. And see you boys soon."
Baroda have been in spectacular form in this year's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. They have won six out of seven matches and currently occupy the top spot in the Group B points table with 24 points. Saurashtra also have the same number of points but are placed second due to their inferior net run rate.
How has Hardik Pandya performed in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024?
The 31-year-old, who is playing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy after a long gap, has been in excellent form with the bat. He has aggregated 231 runs in five games, including two half-centuries. The all-rounder scored an unbeaten 74 against Gujarat in the first game of the tournament.
Hardik last donned the Men in Blue jersey during India's T20 tour of South Africa last month. He made some key contributions with the bat, as India won the four-match series 3-1.