Hardik Pandya's Power Play: Why he’s the ultimate finisher in any format cricket?

Virat Kohli dazzled with an 84-run knock as India defeated Australia by 4 wickets to secure a spot in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai on Tuesday. The Rohit Sharma-led side chased down a target of 265 runs in 48.1 overs, with crucial contributions from Shreyas Iyer (45), KL Rahul (42 not out), and Hardik Pandya, who played a finishing role with a couple of crucial sixes in the final overs.

Earlier, a disciplined bowling effort helped India bundle out Australia for 264 after being asked to bowl first. Mohammed Shami was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 48 runs, while Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with two wickets each. For Australia, Steve Smith was the top scorer with 73 runs off 96 balls. India will now face the winner of the South Africa vs New Zealand match in the final.

Hardik Pandya has established himself as one of the top finishers in modern-day cricket due to his powerful batting, composure under pressure, and versatility. His ability to score runs quickly in the death overs makes him a valuable asset for any team. Known for his fearless approach, Pandya has a wide range of shots, particularly his ability to clear the boundary with ease. His aggressive batting style often shifts the momentum of a game, turning tight situations into match-winning performances.

What sets Pandya apart is his mental strength and adaptability. He remains calm in high-pressure situations, making calculated decisions that often lead to successful finishes. His sharp cricketing instincts allow him to read the game well, finding gaps and rotating strike when necessary. Moreover, his all-round skills allow him to contribute with both bat and ball, adding an extra layer of flexibility to his role.

Pandya's performances in both domestic and international cricket, particularly in limited-overs formats, have made him a standout finisher. Whether it's taking on the opposition’s best bowlers or guiding his team through challenging chase situations, Hardik Pandya has proven time and again that he's a go-to player for finishing games with style and precision.