Hardik Pandya took the first wicket for India against Pakistan on Sunday (Images via X/@BCCI & Getty Images)

Hardik Pandya’s skill for delivering in India-Pakistan matches continued on Sunday as he removed opener Fakhar Zaman in the Asia Cup Super Four clash at the Dubai International Stadium.In just the second over of his spell, Pandya had just conceded a boundary to Zaman, who backed away and smashed him through point with confidence. But the Indian all-rounder responded immediately.In the next delivery, Pandya changed things up, and Zaman was nicked behind and wicketkeeper Sanju Samson claimed the catch low to his right. The dismissal went upstairs, with third umpire checks needed to confirm if the ball had carried. After multiple angles were reviewed, the decision came in India’s favour.

Fakhar, visibly unhappy, walked back for 15 off nine balls, which included three fours. The breakthrough successfully halted Pakistan’s brisk start. The wicket also extended Pandya’s remarkable record in India-Pakistan T20Is. He now has 15 wickets in just eight innings against Pakistan, which is the most by any bowler in the fixture. Crucially, he has never gone wicketless in these encounters as well. The trend was visible in the group stage clash as well, where Pandya struck with his very first delivery, removing opener Saim Ayub. His ability to provide breakthroughs early has made him a decisive factor in India’s bowling plans.

On a day when the spotlight was once again on the rivalry, Pandya made sure that his presence was felt early, striking in just his second over to hand India the early advantage.