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Security Concerns Over Hardik Pandya Force SMAT Venue Switch as Baroda Defeat Gujarat

The BCCI has recalled the all-rounder to join India’s T20I squad in Cuttack on December 6 following two domestic outings.

Overview

  • Organisers moved the Baroda–Gujarat match from Hyderabad’s Gymkhana Ground to the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium after unexpected crowds created safety risks.
  • Officials cited unusually large gatherings near the team hotel, practice nets and ticket counters, exceeding projections for a domestic fixture.
  • Baroda won the relocated December 4 game by eight wickets, with Hardik Pandya returning 1 for 16 from four overs before scoring 10.
  • The venue change followed repeated pitch invasions during Baroda’s earlier match against Punjab, including a fan reaching Pandya for a selfie that halted play.
  • Cleared by the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Pandya impressed with a 77* off 42 balls against Punjab and will now link up with India ahead of the T20I series starting December 9.