Talent gets the best attention and spotlight over hard work in the world of cricket. But once in a while, it is the little things outside the arena that hit home. Before the Mumbai Indians’ IPL match against Delhi Capitals, Hardik surprised Kashvee with a custom-made bat weighing 1100 grams. The moment went viral and was captured on video. It was heartwarming.
Kashvee Gautam, a rising star in Indian women’s cricket and an all-rounder for Gujarat Giants in the WPL, was the lucky recipient of the heartwarming gesture. She is a keen devotee of Hardik Pandya, apart from that. During a WPL interaction, her teammates lovingly told Hardik that Kashvee had written “HP33” on her bat, his initials, and jersey number. It was the most adorable tribute to her favorite player. And that sweet little act caught attentive eyes. Hardik smiled and, without much thought, promised her a bat.
And guess what? He kept his word.
Hardik handed over the bat with a smile and said,
“Badhai ho badhai pehla call up ke liye. Ye le tu check kar, nahi acha lage to wapas de dena.”
(Translation: “Congratulations on your first national call-up! Take this, try it out if you don’t like it, feel free to return it.”)
He added, “Play and enjoy. Go well. India ke liye khelo.”
(“Play well, have fun. To represent India!”)
This indeed was one of those simple moments that seemed to speak about encouragement, keeping one grounded, and inspiring the next generation. Kashvee is well-deserved she recently concluded the WPL season, and she emerged as Gujarat Giants’ leading wicket-taker with 11 wickets in 9 matches at a staggering economy rate of 6.45. Solid performances with both bat and ball led her to get her maiden call on the national Indian side, probably ahead of the Women’s ODI World Cup later this year in India.
And now, she is dreaming even bigger with a bat gifted by her idol. Hardik Pandya is famous for his aggressive batting and his cool demeanor on the field, but this side of him the kind, humble, and supportive towards budding talents is hardly emphasized. A sport characterized more by lofty boundaries than by wickets, that moment stood out it was about respect, inspiration, and encouragement. It reminded us that cricket is not only a battle arena; it’s a community where players pick each other up.
