"Magical verses by Hardik Potter" - Fans react as Hardik Pandya whispers something to ball before taking a wicket in IND vs PAK tie of 2023 World Cup

Hardik Pandya provided Team India with a crucial breakthrough, dismissing the well-set Imam-ul-Haq in the 13th over of Pakistan's innings in the ongoing 2023 World Cup match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The all-rounder sent back Imam with a length delivery outside the off-stump. The southpaw attempted to go for a drive but failed to get the desired connection. He could only manage to get an outside edge that went straight into the hands of keeper KL Rahul.

Imam had to take the long walk back after scoring 36 runs off 38 deliveries.

Interestingly, Hardik was seen saying something to the ball, desperately shouting after failing to get any movement. While it isn't clear what he said, it surely worked out well for his team.

Following the dismissal, several fans took to social media to react to Hardik's antics in the World Cup game.

Here are some of the best reactions:

It is worth mentioning that Pakistan openers Imam-ul-Haq (36) and Abdullah Shafique (20) got off to decent starts but failed to convert them into big scores.

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"They have given Pakistan a chance to score big runs" - Shoaib Akhtar questioned India's decision to bowl first in 2023 World Cup match

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar believes that Team India skipper Rohit Sharma made the wrong decision by electing to field first after winning the toss. He opined that the Men in Green have a significant chance to register an imposing score upfront, considering the batting-friendly conditions at the venue.

Akhtar said in a video uploaded on his Twitter handle:

"It is a very good wicket. Rohit Sharma winning the toss and fielding first is beyond me. Also, I don't know why they didn't play an extra spinner. I am very happy that Pakistan got to bat first here. They are off to a flyer. It was not a wise decision by India. They have given Pakistan a chance to score big runs."

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam scored a fine half-century in the 2023 World Cup encounter. The No. 1 ODI batter mustered 50 runs before getting out bowled to Mohammed Siraj in the 30th over.