South Africa vs India 2018, 1st Test: Hits and misses

Hit: Hardik Pandya

Ever since breaking onto the international cricket scene, Hardik Pandya has become an integral part of the Indian cricket team.

The 24-year-old, who made his international debut in 2016, has risen through the ranks to establish himself as one of the most consistent all-rounders in the sport.

Pandya proved his mettle in the limited-over format but his biggest test awaited him when he came out to bat in the first Test against South Africa on Saturday.

South Africa had picked three early to push the visitors on the backfoot. When Pandya came to the crease at Newlands, India were reeling at 76 for 5, 210 behind the hosts' first innings total.

He did not succumb to the pressure and fought back valiantly with a 95-ball 93 on a pitch that had plenty to offer to the bowlers.

Owing to Pandya's stunning onslaught, India staged a comeback and reduced South Africa's first innings lead to 77.

Pandya chipped in with the ball as well as he removed well-set South African openers Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar and opened the floodgates for a batting collapse.