IND vs IRE: 'Hardik Pandya is Back' - Twitter ecstatic as India Vice-Captain dismantles Ireland with 3 wickets

India decimated Ireland in the first match of their T20 World Cup 2024 campaign in New York on Wednesday (June 5).

India captain Rohit Sharma chose to field first on a tricky Nassau County stadium and his bowlers delivered from the start.

Arshdeep Singh got the early breakthrough, followed by a fantastic spell by Hardik Pandya. The India vice-captain has been in the limelight for all the wrong reasons in recent times, but it was an inspired performance as Pandya picked up three wickets in the match.

He cleaned up Lorcan Tucker with a beautiful delivery, got the crucial wicket of Curtis Campher and then dismissed Mark Adair as well. Pandya was the pick of the bowlers with a stellar spell showing 3 for 27 in his four overs. India bowled out Ireland for just 96 runs and are in pole position to start their campaign with a victory.

Hardik Pandya has been enduring a tough period for some time now. Since his appointment as Mumbai Indians captain, things haven't gone right for Pandya both on and off the field. Along with the cricketing blues, a recent speculation on his personal life mustn't have been easy to deal with.

There were also speculation about Hardik and Rohit Sharma's degradation in relationship, but Pandya was chosen as Rohit's deputy for the T20 World Cup. And things have started in the perfect fashion for Pandya.

IND v IRE, T20 WC 2024: Hardik Pandya Twitter Reaction

As the India vice-captain showcased his mettle against Ireland, the social media reacted emphatically, cheering Hardik's success after a tough period. Here are some of the best reactions-

It has really been a fantastic start for Hardik Pandya in India colours. After all the recent adversities, Hardik's effort has to be admired.

This user has credited India captain Rohit Sharma for utilizing Hardik Pandya perfectly.

This is how Hardik Pandya uprooted Lorcan Tucker, and here is how this fan reacted to it.

Hardik Pandya has previously been accused of playing for IPL only. Hopefully the critics have already eaten their humble pie.