Funny moment when umpire almost slapped Hardik Pandya in an ODI game

Hard-hitting young Indian all-rounder, Hardik Pandya, has been making some serious progress in the world cricket at the moment. The Baroda all-rounder has escalated big time in stature in the recent times. Pandya, who shot to fame with his stint in the IPL for the Mumbai Indians a couple of years ago, has managed to become a vital cog in the wheel for the Indian team.

He had a rough run in international cricket last year, but has managed to bounce back in fine fashion this season. He has emerged as the new pinch hitter in the team. Hardik Pandya holds the unique distinction of hitting three consecutive sixes in an over on four occasions in international cricket. All four of them have come this year. He was one of the star performers for India in the ICC Champions Trophy this year and soon managed to earn a Test cap.

He had a phenomenal debut Test series against Sri Lanka a couple of months ago. In the home series against Australia that followed, Hardik managed to finish the ODI series as the Player of the Series. He is currently having his time off the field. He has been rested for the Test series against Sri Lanka. In a recent update, Hardik had admitted that he had asked for the break.

Rod Tucker almost slaps Pandya

While the on-field heroics of Pandya are being talked about everywhere, there is one funny incident involving him that is not known to many. During the second ODI against New Zealand at Pune, the on-field umpire had gestured as if he would slap Pandya. The actual incident perspired after the 32nd over of the match. Hardik was supposed to take the strike.

Dinesh Karthik, who was at the other end, looked confused as Hardik asked him to take the strike after the drinks break. Looking at the confusion brewing up because of Hardik Pandya, umpire Rod Tucker made gestures to Hardik as if he would slap him for his ignorance. Well, it was all in fun spirits and the crowds at the venue absolutely loved it.

You can watch the snapshots here