Hardik Pandya's uninspiring performance joins Ishan Kishan in disappointing list as fans criticize: 'Are they auditioning for BGT?'

Pandya emerged as India's leading run-scorer in the match, showcasing his prowess with a total of 39 runs off 45 balls which included 4 boundaries and a six. The versatile all-rounder displayed his resilience by stepping up to bat at number 6, when India were struggling at just 45 for 4 wickets in 8 overs. Initially facing some challenges, Pandya patiently played some dot balls to settle in and then proceeded to take charge of the innings. Despite losing the key wickets of Axar Patel and Rinku Singh on the other end, Pandya took on the responsibility of guiding India to a strong finish with his crucial contributions.

The 31-year-old played 10 dot balls in the last three overs, which only made matters worse for him and the team. He managed to finish the innings with a four to help India post 124/6.

He ended up with a strike of 86.67, which put him on the unwanted list topped by Ishan Kishan.

Lowest SR for an Indian batter in a T20I innings (40+ balls)83.33 Ishan Kishan 35(42) vs WI Kolkata 202284.44 Dinesh Mongia 38(45) vs SA Joburg 200686.67 Hardik Pandya 39*(45) vs SA Gqeberha 202491.07 KL Rahul 51*(56) vs SA Trivandrum 2022

The fans on social media also lashed out at Hardik for his sluggish knock.

India vs South Africa 2nd T20I Live Score and Updates

Axar Patel (27, 21b), who was moved up the order played a couple of delectable shots including a punch through the covers off Keshav Maharaj for a four, was India’s most assured batter on the night.

Meanwhile, Marco Jansen (1/25), Gerald Coetzee (1/25), Andile Simelane (1/20), Aiden Markram (1/4), and Nqabayomzi Peter (1/20) all contributed with wickets for the hosts.

Earlier, South Africa skipper Aiden Markram won the toss and opted to bowl against India in the second T20I of the four-match series on Sunday.

India decided to go with the same playing eleven from the first match, while South Africa made one change, bringing in Reeza Hendricks in place of Patrick Kruger.

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