Thu Jan 08 08:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Hardik Pandya’s Explosive Form in Vijay Hazare Trophy Raises Eyebrows Ahead of Potential National Call-Up

The Story:

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has showcased blistering form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring a rapid 75 runs off just 31 balls against Chandigarh at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on January 8th. Batting at number 6 for Baroda, Pandya’s innings completely shifted the momentum of the match. This follows a century he scored in his previous Vijay Hazare match. In his two Vijay Hazare matches leading up to a potential T20 World Cup selection, Pandya has amassed 20 sixes and 11 fours. His aggressive batting style, marked by a 19-ball fifty, has reignited discussions about his potential return to the national side.

Baroda’s innings was also bolstered by Priyanshu Molia’s 103 off 106 balls and Jitesh Sharma’s quickfire 73 off 33 balls, enabling the team to surpass 350 runs. Pandya’s recent form, especially considering he was rested for India’s ODI series against New Zealand, makes a strong statement as he seeks a place in the national team.

Key Points:

  • Hardik Pandya scored 75 runs off 31 balls against Chandigarh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy on January 8th.
  • He previously scored a century (133 off 68 balls) against Vidarbha just five days prior.
  • In two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, he has hit 20 sixes and 11 fours.
  • Priyanshu Molia contributed a century (103 off 106 balls).
  • Jitesh Sharma added a rapid 73 runs off 33 balls.
  • Pandya was rested for India’s ODI series against New Zealand, making his domestic form particularly noteworthy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pandya’s explosive form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy demonstrates his readiness for high-pressure situations.
  • His aggressive batting style and ability to quickly score runs are valuable assets for any team.
  • The timing of his performance, coupled with his rest from the New Zealand series, positions him as a strong contender for a national team call-up, especially with an eye on the T20 World Cup.
  • Baroda’s strong batting performance highlights the depth of talent within the team.
  • Pandya’s consistency in scoring, with four scores over fifty in his last five matches, reinforces his reliability as a batsman.

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