Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya made a splendid return to international cricket, playing a key role in India's 101-run win against South Africa in the first T20I in Cuttack. After nearly six months away from the game nursing a troublesome quad injury, Hardik played a thunderous knock upon his return.

India were in trouble when Hardik walked in at No. 6. And he responded with grit, unleashing a ruthless assault to slam 59 off 28 balls to power India to a competitive total. Interestingly, playing a blistering innings, Hardik flipped the match on its head in a matter of minutes with a flurry of boundaries.

“I had to back my shots. At the same time, I realised that the wicket had a bit of spice. And you had to be a little gutsy. It was more about timing the ball, not trying to break it. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting," Hardik said during the post-match presentation.

Following a quadriceps injury, Pandya underwent intense rehabilitation at the NCA and recently made a scintillating return to domestic cricket.

“I think the last six or seven months have been really amazing from my fitness standpoint. I don’t make a big deal about the hard work that goes behind (it), but at the same time, these last 50 days — being away from your loved ones, spending time at the NCA, making sure all things are covered. It’s very satisfying when you come here and the result comes like this.”

Speaking on his role in the team, Pandya categorically stated that he is not too fussy about the roles.

"As a cricketer, I don't think I've ever been fussy about what roles I have in the game. It doesn't matter what Hardik Pandya wants. It matters what India wants. When I get an opportunity, I come and try to do my best. Some days are good; some days are not. Throughout my career I have always tried to put the team first. And that's my biggest USP," he said.