Hardik Pandya fulfils promise, rewards Wankhede groundsmen after T20 World Cup win

Hardik Pandya once again showed why his impact goes beyond the cricket field, this time with a heartwarming gesture towards the Wankhede stadium groundsmen. The T20 World Cup-winning all-rounder fulfilled a promise he had made months earlier, taking time out to honour the groundsmen with gifts and finiancial help.

The Mumbai Indians captain had spent long nights training at the venue in the lead-up to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, often his practise session stretching well beyond regular hours. During that phase, the groundsmen ensured he had uninterrupted access and support, something Hardik had acknowledged and promised to repay.

On Thursday, he did exactly that. Hardik felicitated the grounds staff at the Wankhede, handing out gifts and financial incentives as a token of gratitude for their efforts.

The hard work, both his and theirs, eventually paid off. India went on to successfully defend their T20 World Cup title, defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final in Ahmedabad. Hardik played a key role throughout the campaign, contributing with both bat and ball to seal another memorable triumph.

The title win also made him a two-time T20 World Cup champion, having been part of the 2024-winning squad as well. But it was this off-field moment that stood out, reinforcing his reputation as someone who values the people working behind the scenes.

Hardik’s act was not a one-off. Over the years, he has consistently shown support to teammates, fans and those around the game, often in ways that do not always make headlines.

HOW HARDIK WINS HEARTS OFF THE FIELD

His impact off the field extends to his teammates as well. In a podcast with YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma revealed how Hardik reached out to him during a difficult moment.

“Hardik bhai was the first one who messaged me when I wasn’t picked for the World Cup,” Jitesh said. “He advised me to just keep growing as a person and as a cricketer. A lot of cricketers messaged me.”

Jitesh also spoke about Hardik’s generosity and approachability, recalling how the all-rounder often goes out of his way to help others.

“Hardik Pandya is the most helpful guy I’ve met. I’ve not met anyone who gives more bats to kids than him, even without being asked. He even gave one to me once,” he added.

For Hardik, this wasn’t just about a gesture, it was about following through on something he had said during those long training nights at Wankhede. The same people who stayed back beyond hours to help him prepare were now being acknowledged in a very real way.

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