Hardik & Krunal’s Inspiring Words Fuel Amit Pasi’s Record-Breaking Century

Experiencing long waits can be heartbreaking, but for Amit Pasi, the nine-year wait eventually paid off. On Monday, Pasi not only debuted in List A Cricket for Baroda but also equaled the world record for the highest T20 score on debut during a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy group match against Services.

Pasi’s 55-ball 114 matched the record set by Pakistan’s Bilal Asif in 2015 for the Sialkot Stallions during a Pakistan T20 League match. For the 26-year-old, this marked a significant turning point in his career.

“There were times when I considered quitting cricket and moved on to coaching. After waiting nearly nine years, I started doubting myself and wondering why it was happening to me,” Pasi said emotionally to Sportstar.

Though he never imagined his debut game for Baroda would land him in the record books, Pasi admitted the journey had been far from easy. In the 2016-17 season, he joined Baroda’s Under-19 squad but remained on the bench the entire season. “I never played age-group cricket,” he explained. “I was picked for age-group teams every season, but never got a chance to play in the final eleven. I kept performing locally, which eventually led to my senior team call-up in 2022.”

Just days ago, Pasi believed he would remain a bench-warmer for the senior team, having not had opportunities in age-group cricket. However, with India internationals Hardik and Krunal Pandya present, Pasi learned a lot from them. “They always motivated me,” he shared. “Krunal and Hardik bhai knew my story. They ensured I didn’t lose hope, encouraging me to maintain a positive mindset and always be ready for opportunities.”

With Jitesh Sharma on international duty, Baroda captain Vishnu Solanki informed Pasi that he may debut as an opener against Services. Despite this dream opportunity, Pasi chose not to get ahead of himself. “In the past, I missed my List A debut due to an injury, and then had to wait years,” he recalled. “So when Vishnu bhai shared the news, I remained grounded.”

Pasi spent a restful night and avoided overthinking. When Solanki handed him the cap on the match day, Pasi felt a sense of fulfillment. “This was the moment I waited for,” he said, knowing he had to play each ball with merit, which proved effective.

Pasi aggressively attacked the opposing team’s bowlers, reaching a 24-ball half-century and completing his maiden T20 century in just 44 deliveries. He became the third Indian to score a T20 century on debut. “While it was incredible, it would have been sweeter if this innings had helped Baroda qualify for the Super League,” Pasi commented.

He was unaware of his world record until relatives informed him at the hotel, where he discovered the news online after a good rest. “Although it’s an honor, I don’t plan to bask in the glory,” Pasi said, a keen admirer of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. “I’ve waited nine years for this, and now I must focus on cementing my place in the team.”

Pasi’s journey traces back to Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, although his parents relocated to Vadodara four decades ago, where he was born in 1999. His elder brother, who also played cricket locally, joined the family water supply business in Gujarat. “While there were no financial difficulties, the last eight-nine years were mentally and emotionally challenging,” Pasi expressed.

A couple of years ago, Pasi began coaching at the Akota Cricket Club, contemplating retirement. However, his peers at the club and the Baroda team encouraged him through challenging times, preventing him from quitting.

“I accepted reality, kept playing, and had no expectations,” he mentioned, which allowed him to work harder, focusing on fitness and diet. Support from Hardik and Krunal bhai was unwavering. “They were always there to listen and guide me.”

Knowing this season could determine his future, Pasi was aware of time slipping away but did what he could and left the rest to fate.

Ultimately, the wait proved worthwhile, marking a memorable milestone in his cricketing career.

Published on Dec 08, 2025