Hardik Pandya is an accomplished Indian cricketer, known for his dynamic playing style and all-round capabilities. He made his international cricket debut on January 26, 2016, in a T20 match against Australia held in Adelaide. Shortly after, on October 16, 2016, he played his first One Day International (ODI) match against New Zealand in Dharamshala, marking the beginning of a promising career on the international stage.

Background

Born on October 11, 1993, in Choryasi, Gujarat, Hardik comes from a supportive family. His father, Himanshu Pandya, is a businessman, while his mother, Nalini Pandya, is a homemaker. Hardik shares a close bond with his brother, Krunal Pandya, who is also a professional cricketer. 

Hardik was married to model and actress Natasa Stankovic. They announced their divorce on July 18, 2024, after four years of being together. The two are parents to a son named Agastya Pandya.

Hardik Pandya’s interests and favourites

Hardik enjoys a variety of hobbies, including travelling and listening to music. Among his favourite cricketers are legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, and Harbhajan Singh. When it comes to food, he has a fondness for Gujarati cuisine. In the realm of entertainment, his favourite actors include Akshay Kumar and Alia Bhatt.

Interesting facts about Hardik Pandya

Throughout his cricketing journey, Hardik received immense support from his father, which played a crucial role in his development as a player. A significant turning point in his career occurred during the inaugural match of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy at Wankhede Stadium, where he delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 377 runs and taking 10 wickets. 

Hardik plays for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has established himself as a key all-rounder for the Indian national team across all three formats of the game. He is also known for his distinctive tattoos, which adorn his arms.

Hardik Pandya’s marriage 

On May 31, 2020, Hardik Pandya tied the knot with Natasa Stankovic. Their wedding was a celebrated event, and shortly after, they welcomed their son Agastya into the world. The two announced their divorced in July 2024. 

Lifestyle

According to media reports, his net worth is estimated to be around Rs 94 crore. He is known for his extravagant lifestyle, featuring high-end cars, luxury watches, and a penthouse in Gujarat. He and his brother Krunal share a spacious 6,000 sq ft penthouse in Vadodara. Pandya’s car collection includes a Land Rover, an Audi, and a Mercedes AMG G63.

Achievements

In April 2024, Hardik Pandya was appointed vice-captain of the Indian team for the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. During the tournament, he made significant contributions, showcasing his skills with both bat and ball as a key player in India’s campaign.

Hardik Pandya has garnered numerous prestigious accolades throughout his career, including the Arjuna Award, which recognizes outstanding achievements in Indian sports, and the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year, awarded for exceptional performances across all formats. His impressive accolades also include being named the Player of the Series in various international tournaments and earning recognition for his pivotal role in India's achievements in T20 and ODI formats.

Hardik Pandya continues to be a significant figure in Indian cricket, admired not only for his skills on the field but also for his inspiring journey and family values.