Key Points
- SMAT 2025: Hardik's explosive return reminded fans of his talent on December 2.
- In 2022, he captained Gujarat Titans to an IPL title in their debut season.
- T20 World Cup 2024: Pandya took 11 wickets and became No. 1 all-rounder.
Hardik Pandya Biography: Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya made a brilliant comeback on the field after a long hiatus. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 (SMAT 2025) match between Baroda and Punjab on December 2, Hardik wreaked havoc with the bat, reminding fans of his explosive talent and game-changing abilities.
From being a young kid with big dreams in Vadodara to becoming one of the most impactful all-rounders in world cricket, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Hardik stepped into the spotlight with his fearless batting, fiery pace, and a confidence that instantly set him apart. Over the years, he has played key roles in India’s biggest white-ball wins and also made his mark as a successful IPL captain.
Let’s know more about his early life, career milestones, IPL journey, international records, personal life, and more, giving you a complete look at one of India’s most dynamic cricket stars.
READ | [Updated] Hardik Pandya Stats 2023: Total Runs, Centuries and Wickets in All Formats
Early Life
Hardik Himanshu Pandya was born on 11 October 1993 in Choryasi, Surat, Gujarat. His father, Himanshu Pandya, ran a small car finance business before shutting it down and shifting to Vadodara when Hardik was just five years old. The move was done solely to give Hardik and his brother Krunal better cricket facilities.
The family had limited money, so they lived in a rented apartment in Gorwa and used a second-hand car to travel to matches and practice sessions. Hardik studied at MK High School until the ninth grade and later dropped out to focus completely on cricket.
In his early days, Hardik was actually a leg-spinner. But at 18, Baroda coach Sanath Kumar told him to switch to fast bowling, a decision that changed his entire career. Even though he was dropped from age-group teams for “attitude issues,” Hardik later clarified he was just expressive and emotional, not arrogant.
Career Highlights
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T20I wickets: 11 wickets in the 2024 World Cup
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T20I ranking: World No. 1 all-rounder (2024)
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IPL titles as captain: 1 (Gujarat Titans, 2022)
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Test century: First Indian to score a ton before lunch
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Major ODI/T20 match-winning spells, including multiple 4-wicket hauls
Domestic Career
Hardik started playing for Baroda in 2013. He gained attention during the 2013-14 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he helped his team win the title. One of his early standout knocks came in January 2016, when he smashed 86* with eight sixes, carrying Baroda to victory over Vidarbha. His fearless batting style soon became his identity.
IPL Career
Mumbai Indians (2015–2021)
Hardik joined the Mumbai Indians in 2015 and made an immediate impact. His 61 off 31 balls against the Kolkata Knight Riders became one of the highlights of the season. Over the years, he became a core player for MI, winning four IPL titles with the franchise.
Gujarat Titans Era (2022–2023)
Ahead of the 2022 auction, MI released him. Gujarat Titans drafted him and made him their captain. Hardik led the team to their maiden title in 2022, becoming only the second captain ever to win the trophy in the franchise’s debut season. Under his leadership, GT reached the finals again in 2023.
Return to Mumbai Indians (2024)
In 2023, Hardik returned to MI through a high-profile trade. He was also named the captain, replacing Rohit Sharma. The decision didn’t sit well with many fans and led to heavy criticism. MI finished last that season, and Hardik scored 216 runs and took 11 wickets.
International Career
T20I Career
Hardik made his T20I debut in 2016 against Australia. Over the years, he became India’s key match-winner, whether it was breaking partnerships or finishing games with the bat. His best T20I figures (4/38) came against England in 2018, where he also scored 33*.
In the 2024 T20 World Cup, he played a huge role as India’s vice captain. He took 11 wickets, scored crucial runs, and delivered clutch performances, including the last over of the final. After the tournament, he became the world’s No. 1 T20 all-rounder.
ODI Career
Hardik made his ODI debut in 2016 and won Player of the Match on debut. His 76 off 43 balls in the 2017 Champions Trophy final remains one of his most memorable ODI knocks. He also achieved a rare double in 2022, scoring a fifty and taking four wickets in the same match.
Test Career
Hardik made his Test debut in 2017. He scored his maiden Test century against Sri Lanka, becoming the first Indian to score a Test hundred before lunch. His aggressive batting made him a rare kind of Test all-rounder, but injuries limited his red-ball career.
Personal Life
Hardik Pandya has an elder brother, Krunal Pandya, who is also an international cricketer. Their father, Himanshu Pandya, passed away in 2021. Hardik was previously married to Serbian actress and dancer Natasa Stankovic. The two got engaged in 2020, welcomed their son Agastya later that year, renewed their wedding vows in 2023, and mutually separated in 2024.
Recently, Hardik has been linked to actress Mahieka Sharma. A viral video has been making rounds online, showing Hardik and Mahika sitting together while a priest chants mantras, leading many to assume they were engaged.

The buzz grew stronger after viewers noticed a diamond ring on Mahika’s finger. Rumours about their alleged engagement have been circulating for days, but Mahika has publicly denied all such claims.
Net Worth
According to reports, Hardik Pandya's net worth is estimated to be approximately Rs. 91-100 crore. His wealth comes from his professional cricket contracts, substantial brand endorsements, and various business investments.
Conclusion
Hardik Pandya’s journey is the kind that hits different: raw talent, crazy highs, tough lows, and a relentless drive to continually improve.
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