India’s pace spearheads Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah left Ahmedabad on Wednesday night with more than just another victory to celebrate. After India edged out the Netherlands by 17 runs to complete an unbeaten group-stage run, the duo won hearts with a thoughtful post-match gesture, gifting signed jerseys to several Dutch players.

The win sealed India’s place in the Super 8s with a perfect four-from-four record. Once the contest ended, Pandya and Bumrah remained on the field, sharing light moments with the Netherlands players before handing over their jerseys as a mark of mutual respect following a competitive clash.

Pandya had played a key role in the result. The all-rounder struck a brisk 30 off 21 balls, combining with Shivam Dube to provide late impetus and power India to 193 after being put in to bat. He also chipped in with the ball, finishing with figures of 1 for 40. Though the Netherlands targeted him in the penultimate over, taking 18 runs off it, India had built enough cushion to stay in control.

Bumrah, as reliable as ever, anchored the bowling effort with a composed spell of 3 overs for 17 runs. He removed Netherlands skipper Scott Edwards at a crucial juncture, halting the chase just as it threatened to gather pace. The Dutch side continued to fight deep into the innings, but India held their nerve to defend the total and carry winning momentum into the next round.

Attention now turns to a high-voltage Super 8 opener against South Africa in Ahmedabad — a rematch of the 2024 T20 World Cup final. But before the tournament intensity ramps up again, Pandya and Bumrah’s post-match gesture served as a reminder that sportsmanship still thrives alongside fierce competition.