Hardik Pandya played a key role in India’s thrilling 7-run victory over England in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (March 5).
The ace all-rounder produced a cameo of 12-ball 27 in the death overs, propelling the defending champions to a gigantic 253/7 in 20 overs after Sanju Samson laid a perfect platform with an explosive knock of 89 from 42 balls at the top.
During the chase, Jacob Bethell slammed a devastating century (105 off 48) and it appeared at one point that he would take his team over the line. However, Hardik delivered a brilliant penultimate over when England needed 39 runs, conceding only nine runs and claiming the wicket of Sam Curran.
This was followed up with a sensational fielding effort by Pandya as he was able to run out Bethell on the first delivery of the final over, which was the final nail in the coffin as India eventually restricted England to 246/7.
As a result, Hardik Pandya won the Impact Player Of The Match medal, given by the Indian team management.
After receiving the media, Pandya revealed how he went into zen mode against England in the death overs to get the wicket of Curran and run Bethell out.
“See, there are two ways in life. I could have got my heart rushing and would have not been able to execute. So, I went in my zen mode. Quite amazing that instead of getting my heartbeat rushed, I was still. And I’m really proud of that," Pandya said in a video shared by BCCI on social media.
“One batter which I had to get out if I had to do it from the field was Bethell, the way he batted. I knew I had to throw that, keep calm, throw it where it’s supposed to be. I would have liked it a little closer to the stump, but nevertheless, we got the job done," he added.
Hardik Pandya pulled off a very animated celebration after his throw resulted in the dismissal of Bethell.
Reflecting on his celebration, the all-rounder said: “The reaction was more because my son came, and I wanted my son and Mahieka to enjoy this moment and feel how Enthu cutlet I am."
India will now face New Zealand in the title clash, scheduled for March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
