MUMBAI:

Pandya marked his return to the national team from a two-month injury layoff with a quick-fire fifty before picking up one wicket, walking in with India reeling at 78-4.

He smashed an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls with four sixes and six fours to help India post a competitive total of 175-6 in 20 overs.

In response, South Africa suffered a batting collapse, as they were bowled out for 74 as all six Indian bowlers picked up wickets.

"I had to back my shots. I realised the wicket had a bit of spice. I had to be a bit gutsy," Pandya said after he was named player of the match.

"It was more about timing the ball, not breaking the ball. I was very satisfied with the way I was batting."

After being put in to bat, India suffered an early blow with opener Shubman Gill's return from a neck

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