he Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) witnessed a landmark moment as 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Bihar became the youngest batter ever to score a century in the tournament. Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya produced a powerful all-round display on his much-awaited return, while Sarfaraz Khan continued to strengthen his reputation as a domestic cricket powerhouse.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi becomes youngest century-maker in SMAT
Teen prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi scripted history by smashing an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls against Maharashtra, hitting 7 fours and 7 sixes. This is his third T20 century of the year, making him the only Indian of his age to achieve such a feat.
Despite his heroics, Bihar’s total of 176/3 was chased down by Prithvi Shaw, who hammered 66 off 30 balls to guide Maharashtra to a three-wicket win. Bihar remain winless in the tournament.
Suryavanshi is now tied with Abhishek Sharma for the most domestic T20 centuries in 2025, while Ayush Mhatre and Ishan Kishan have two each.
Hardik Pandya delivers explosive return for Baroda
Making his comeback after a left quadriceps injury, Hardik Pandya announced his return with a blistering 77 off 42 balls*, helping Baroda chase down Punjab’s target of 223.
Hardik shared a crucial 101-run stand with Shivalik Sharma (47*), before Baroda finished the match in just 9 balls, needing 30 off the last 15.
Although Hardik was expensive with the ball, conceding 52 runs for 1 wicket, he showcased exceptional batting form—an encouraging sign ahead of major tournaments.
Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma threatened with an explosive 18-ball 50, but Baroda’s chase sealed a seven-wicket win. Both teams now have two victories in Group C, with Gujarat leading the standings.
Sarfaraz Khan’s impressive form continues
While Hardik and Vaibhav dominated the headlines, Sarfaraz Khan also continued his consistent domestic performances across formats this season. His aggressive middle-order batting has been crucial in maintaining momentum for his side, keeping him firmly in national team discussions as India build depth for the coming season.
Padikkal, Bishnoi and Arjun Tendulkar shine in other fixtures
- Devdutt Padikkal smashed a brilliant 102 off 46 balls*, his fourth T20 century, as Karnataka crushed Tamil Nadu by bundling them out for just 100.
- Ravi Bishnoi, recently released by LSG, impressed with 3 wickets, helping Gujarat bowl out Puducherry for 83 and chase the target in 9 overs.
- Arjun Tendulkar, now with Goa, delivered a strong spell of 3/36, dismissing Venkatesh Iyer as Goa chased down MP’s 170/6 comfortably.
Tamil Nadu’s poor domestic season continued as they slid to the bottom of Group D.
