Pandya shines as India beats England in T20 opener

A smashing half-century from all-rounder Hardik Pandya (51 off 33 balls) backed up by his superb bowling efforts (4/33 in 4 overs) gave India a huge 50-run win against the Jos Buttler-led England in the opening T20 International -- a day-night game -- at The Rose Bowl, Southampton.

Hardik Pandya blasted his maiden Twenty20 international half-century and took four wickets as India comfortably beat England by 50 runs in Southampton in the opening game of the three-match series. Credit: AFP Photo

Pandya hit six fours and one towering six, off Matt Parkinson, before being dismissed for 51 in his 43rd T20I innings. Credit: Reuters Photo

Pandya's fireworks came after Suryakumar Yadav (39) and Deepak Hooda (33) had set the tone with some flamboyant shots. Credit: AFP Photo

Pandya tormented England with the ball as well, taking 4-33 from his four overs as the hosts could only manage 148 in their limp run-chase. Credit: AP Photo

India captain Rohit Sharma, back in the side after recovering from Covid-19, was rewarded for his decision to bat first as the tourists gained a small measure of revenge for their stunning Test loss to England earlier this week. Credit: Reuters Photo

On the bowling side, Yuzvendra Chahal continues to look imposing. Credit: AFP Photo

Harry Brook (28) and Moeen Ali (36) tried to revive England in the middle overs but both fell to the leg-spin of Yuzvendra Chahal. Credit: Reuters Photo