Nationality | Indian |
Age | 30 years |
Birth Details | Born on 11 October 1993 in Choryasi, Surat, Gujarat, India |
Sports/Event Specialization | Cricketer |
Current Team/Club | Mumbai Indians |
Hardik Himanshu Pandya is an acclaimed Indian cricketer and the current vice-captain of the Indian cricket team in limited overs format. He is renowned for his skills as a batting all-rounder and is capable of delivering right-arm fast-medium bowling.
Pandya has made significant contributions to Indian cricket in all three formats of the game and is considered one of the world’s top all-rounders.
Hardik’s cricket career progressed through junior levels, where he was known for winning matches single-handedly in club cricket.
Despite facing setbacks, including being dropped from state age-group teams due to attitude issues, he persevered. Initially a leg spinner, he switched to fast bowling at the age of 18 on his coach’s advice.
Early Life & Background
Full Name | Hardik Himanshu Pandya |
Nickname(s) | Harry, Kung Fu Pandya, Hairy |
Profession | Cricketer |
Date of Birth | 11 October 1993 |
Age | 30 years (as of 2023) |
Zodiac Sign | Libra |
Nationality | Indian |
Birth Place | Choryasi, Surat, Gujarat, India |
Home Town | Vadodara, Gujarat, India |
Religion | Hinduism |
Family | Himanshu Pandya (father), Nalini Pandya (mother), Krunal Pandya (brother) |
Hardik Pandya was born on October 11, 1993, in Choryasi, Surat, Gujarat, India. His birthplace played a foundational role in his early exposure to cricket.
Hardik’s father, Himanshu Pandya, ran a small car finance business in Surat. Seeking better cricket training facilities for his sons, he moved the family to Vadodara when Hardik was five years old.
In Vadodara, Himanshu worked as a loan agent. Hardik has an elder brother, Krunal Pandya, who is also a professional cricketer.
Education: School and College
Hardik attended MK High School in Vadodara. His education was primarily focused on cricket, and he dropped out of school after ninth grade to concentrate fully on his cricket career.
This decision highlights the significant role his schooling played in shaping his sports career, providing him with the time and focus needed to hone his skills.
Role in Sports Career
The move to Vadodara was crucial for Hardik’s cricket development. The city offered better cricket facilities and opportunities, which were instrumental in his growth as a cricketer.
Detailed Initial Training
Hardik and his brother Krunal were enrolled in Kiran More’s cricket academy in Vadodara. Despite financial constraints, which included living in a rented apartment and traveling in a second-hand car, Hardik received quality cricket training under More’s guidance.
Struggles
Hardik faced several challenges in his early cricketing journey. He was dropped from his state age-group teams due to “attitude problems,” as he was an expressive child who didn’t like to hide his emotions. His family’s financial struggles also posed a significant challenge, but they did not deter him from pursuing his passion for cricket.
Hardik’s early life was marked by a deep commitment to cricket, supported by his family’s sacrifices and his determination to overcome challenges. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful cricket career.
Debut, Career, Highlights and Performance
Playing Style | Right-handed batsman, Right-arm fast-medium bowler |
International Debut | T20I: 26 January 2016 v Australia |
Debut Matches | Test: 26 July 2017 v Sri Lanka, ODI: 16 October 2016 v New Zealand, T20I: 26 January 2016 v Australia |
Teams Played For | India, Baroda, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, Indian Board Presidents XI |
Batting Style | Right-handed batsman |
Bowling Style | Right-arm fast-medium bowler |
Jersey Number | 33 (India and Domestic) |
Best Record | 108* (Test), 92* (ODI), 71* (T20I) |
Coach/Mentor | Ajay Pawar |
Debut in Different Formats
Hardik Pandya’s journey in international cricket began with his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut for India on January 27, 2016, against Australia. He was 22 years old at the time and made an immediate impact by picking up two wickets in the match.
His One Day International (ODI) debut followed on October 16, 2016, against New Zealand at Dharamshala, where he was named the player of the match, a rare feat for a debutant. Pandya’s Test debut came a bit later, on July 26, 2017, against Sri Lanka.
Comprehensive Career Overview
Pandya quickly established himself as a versatile all-rounder, contributing significantly with both bat and ball across all formats. In T20Is, he became known for his ability to take crucial wickets and score briskly in high-pressure situations.
His ODI career has been marked by several match-winning performances, including a memorable 43-ball 76 in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017, despite India’s loss in the match.
In Test cricket, although his appearances have been limited, Pandya has shown the potential to change the course of a game with his all-round skills.
Career Turning Points
One of the significant turning points in Pandya’s career was his performance in the 2016 World Twenty20. In a nail-biting match against Bangladesh, he took two crucial wickets in the final over, leading India to a one-run victory.
Another notable moment was in the 2018 T20I against England, where he achieved his career-best bowling figures of 4 for 38 and scored 33 not out, becoming the first Indian to take four wickets and score over 30 runs in the same T20I match.
Pandya’s career, however, has not been without its challenges. In the 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, his performance was below expectations, and he struggled to contribute effectively with both bat and ball.
This led to his temporary exclusion from the T20I series that followed the World Cup. Despite these setbacks, Pandya’s resilience and talent have kept him as a key player in the Indian cricket team.
In June 2022, Pandya was named India’s captain for T20I matches against Ireland, marking a new chapter in his career. On July 7, 2022, he achieved his first T20 international half-century against England, scoring 51 runs off 33 balls and taking four wickets, showcasing his all-round abilities.
Hardik Pandya’s international career has been a blend of remarkable highs and challenging lows. His ability to perform under pressure and his all-round skills have made him an invaluable asset to the Indian cricket team.
Key Records and Achievements
Hardik Pandya, known for his explosive batting and effective medium-pace bowling, has set several records and earned numerous accolades in his cricket career.
He made a mark in international cricket with some record-breaking performances, particularly in limited-overs formats. One of his most notable achievements was becoming the first Indian player to score over 30 runs and take four wickets in a T20I match, which he accomplished against England in 2018.
This performance highlighted his exceptional all-round capabilities.
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pandya has been a key player for the Mumbai Indians, contributing significantly to their title victories. His ability to hit big sixes and bowl in crucial overs has made him one of the most valuable players in the T20 format.
Additionally, Pandya’s rapid rise in international cricket earned him the accolade of being one of the most promising young talents in the cricketing world.
While specific awards and honors are not detailed in the search results, Pandya’s contributions to the Indian cricket team and his IPL franchise have been widely recognized and appreciated by cricket experts and fans alike.
His aggressive style and match-winning performances have made him a standout player in modern cricket.
Pandya‘s Philosophy and Physical Appearance
Height | 183 cm (6 ft 0 in) |
Weight | 75 kg (approx.) |
Body Measurements | Chest: 40 inches, Waist: 30 inches, Biceps: 14 inches |
Hair Colour | Black |
Eye Colour | Dark Brown |
Hobbies | Travelling, Listening to Music |
Hardik Pandya, born on October 11, 1993, in Surat, Gujarat, India, stands at a height of 1.83 meters (6 feet 0 inches). His athletic build and physical fitness are key attributes that contribute to his dynamic performance on the cricket field.
Approach to the Sport
His aggressive style and versatility characterize Hardik Pandya’s approach to cricket as an all-rounder. He is known for his ability to change the game with both bat and ball.
Pandya’s batting is marked by powerful hitting and an ability to score quickly, making him a crucial player in limited-overs formats. As a bowler, he delivers right-arm fast-medium pace, often used by his team for breakthroughs. His fielding skills are also noteworthy, adding to his all-round capabilities.
Influences and Inspirations
Pandya’s cricketing journey suggests a strong determination and a passion for the sport. Growing up in a cricket-loving family, with his father moving to Vadodara for better cricket training facilities for his sons, indicates a supportive environment that fuelled his cricketing aspirations. His brother, Krunal Pandya, also a professional cricketer, might have been an influence and a source of inspiration in his career.
Hardik Pandya’s journey in cricket reflects a blend of natural talent, hard work, and a bold approach to the game. His physical attributes, combined with his cricketing philosophy, have made him one of the most exciting cricketers in the modern era.
Off the Field & Personal Life of Hardick Pandya
Marital Status | Married |
Marriage Date | May 31, 2020 (court marriage) and February 14, 2023 Christian Wedding |
Spouse Name | Nataša Stanković |
Children | Agastya (son) |
Net Worth | $6 million (as of 2021) |
Salary | ₹11 crore per year (IPL contract) |
Hardik Pandya got engaged to Nataša Stanković, an India-based Serbian model and dancer, on January 1, 2020, in Dubai. They got married during the pandemic quarantine and welcomed their son Agastya on July 30, 2020.
Hobbies and Interests
Hardik Pandya enjoys traveling and listening to music in his leisure time. He has multiple tattoos on his body, which reflect his personality and beliefs. He has a tattoo of a man holding a child’s hand and below that, the date 30.07.2020, the birth date of his son Agastya, inked on his right arm.
Charity and Philanthropy
Hardik Pandya has been involved in various charitable and philanthropic activities. He has donated money and equipment to various causes, such as the fight against COVID-19, education of underprivileged children, and relief for flood victims. He has also supported campaigns for animal welfare, environmental protection, and women’s empowerment.
Endorsement and affiliations
Hardik Pandya has endorsed several brands and products, such as Gillette, Oppo, Gulf Oil, Sin Denim, Boat, Hala Play, and Zaggle. He has also been associated with Star Sports, Dream11, and Cred as their brand ambassador. He has a net worth of around $6 million as of 2021.
Challenges and Controversies
Hardik Pandya is an Indian cricketer who is known for his explosive batting and bowling skills. He is also one of the most popular and controversial figures in Indian cricket. He has faced several challenges and controversies in his career, both on and off the field. Some of them are:
Sexist Statements on Coffee with Karan
In January 2019, Hardik Pandya and his teammate KL Rahul appeared on a chat show called “Coffee with Karan,” hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar. On the show, Pandya made some sexist and racist remarks about women and his dating life. He also bragged about his sexual exploits and objectified women.
His comments sparked a huge backlash from the public and the media, who accused him of being disrespectful and misogynistic. He was also suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for his conduct and was sent back home from the tour of Australia. He later apologized for his remarks and said that he got carried away by the nature of the show.
Back Injury and Recovery
In September 2018, Hardik Pandya suffered a serious back injury while bowling in the Asia Cup match against Pakistan in Dubai. He had to be stretchered off the field and was ruled out of the tournament.
He underwent surgery in October 2019 and was out of action for almost a year. He faced many challenges and doubts during his recovery period, as he was unsure of his future as an all-rounder. He worked hard on his fitness and rehabilitation and made a comeback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2020.
He also regained his bowling form in the T20 World Cup in 2022, where he played a crucial role in India’s victory over Pakistan in the semi-final. He said that his injury taught him a lot of things and made him stronger as a person and a player.
Twitter Spat with Krunal Pandya
In November 2021, Hardik Pandya and his elder brother Krunal Pandya, who is also a cricketer, had a heated exchange on Twitter. The spat started when Krunal tweeted a picture of himself with his wife Pankhuri Sharma and captioned it “My life, my world”.
Hardik replied to the tweet with a sarcastic comment, saying, “Wow, what a caption. So original. Copy pastes from Google”. Krunal then hit back at Hardik, saying, “At least I don’t copy-paste from other cricketers. You know what I mean”. This was a reference to Hardik’s alleged affair with actress Elli Avram, who was previously linked to cricketer Yuvraj Singh.
The brothers deleted their tweets later, but not before they went viral on social media. Many fans and followers speculated that there was some rift between the siblings, while some defended them, saying that it was just a friendly banter.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- Nickname: Hardik Pandya is often referred to as “Kung Fu Pandya” and “Hairy” due to his energetic playing style and distinctive hairdos.
- Early Switch in Bowling Style: Originally a leg spinner, Hardik switched to fast bowling at the age of 18 on the advice of his coach.
- Spectacular Debut: He made his Twenty20 International debut for India in January 2016 against Australia, picking up two wickets.
- Record-Breaking Performance: Hardik became the first Indian to take four wickets and score over 30 runs in the same T20I match, achieving this feat against England in 2018.
- IPL Captaincy: He was named the captain of the Gujarat Titans in the IPL and led them to their maiden IPL title in their debut season in 2022.
- Family of Cricketers: Hardik’s elder brother, Krunal Pandya, is also a professional cricketer and has played for the Indian cricket team.
- Passion for Big Hits: Known for his aggressive batting, Hardik has a reputation for hitting big sixes in crucial moments of the game.
- Overcoming Challenges: Despite being dropped from state age-group teams due to “attitude problems,” Hardik persevered and made a name for himself in domestic and international cricket.
- A Vital All-Rounder: Hardik’s all-round abilities make him a valuable player in all formats of the game, contributing significantly with both bat and ball.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hardik Pandya
What are some of Hardik Pandya’s notable achievements in cricket?
Hardik Pandya has several notable achievements, including leading the Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title in 2022, becoming the first Indian to score over 30 runs and take four wickets in a T20I match, and being a key player in India’s cricket team across all formats.
Has Hardik Pandya played in the IPL?
Yes, Hardik Pandya has played in the Indian Premier League (IPL), initially for the Mumbai Indians and later as the captain of the Gujarat Titans.
What is Hardik Pandya’s role in the Indian cricket team?
In the Indian cricket team, Hardik Pandya serves as a versatile all-rounder, contributing both in batting and bowling. He is particularly effective in limited-overs formats.
Has Hardik Pandya faced any controversies in his career?
Yes, Hardik Pandya faced controversy in 2019 due to comments made on a TV show, which led to a temporary suspension from the Indian cricket team.
What is Hardik Pandya’s playing style?
Hardik Pandya is known for his aggressive and flamboyant playing style, especially noted for his ability to hit big sixes and bowl at crucial moments in the game.
Who are Hardik Pandya’s family members also involved in cricket?
Hardik’s elder brother, Krunal Pandya, is also a professional cricketer and has played for the Indian cricket team.
What are some of Hardik Pandya’s interests outside cricket?
Outside of cricket, Hardik Pandya has shown interest in fashion and is known for his unique sense of style. He is also active on social media and engages in various endorsements.