Hardik Pandya Sends Heartfelt Message to RCB's Gautami Naik After Her Stellar Performance
Hardik Pandya Congratulates Gautami Naik
Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], January 20: Indian Men’s Team all-rounder Hardik Pandya surprised Gautami Naik, a player for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Women, with a special video message following her impressive fifty against the Gujarat Giants (GG) in the 12th match of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 season.
Gautami, who is yet to make her mark in international cricket, achieved her first WPL fifty by scoring 73 runs off 55 balls, leading RCB to their fifth straight victory in the tournament and keeping them unbeaten.
In a video shared on RCB's Instagram, Gautami expressed her admiration for Hardik Pandya, stating that he is her cricketing idol and that she aspires to emulate his style of play. "I always watch him during high-pressure situations. His calmness resonates with my own nature, and I aspire to play like him," she shared.
To her delight, Pandya recorded a congratulatory message for her maiden half-century, expressing his honor at being her idol and encouraging her to maintain discipline, enjoy the game, and continue excelling for her team and country.
"Hi Gautami, Hardik here. I’m thrilled to know I inspire young cricketers. Congratulations on your first half-century! Enjoy the game, and I hope you achieve even more for your franchise and the nation. Stay disciplined and keep loving the sport," Pandya said in the video.
Gautami reacted with overwhelming joy, describing the moment as a significant milestone in her life. She expressed gratitude towards Pandya, praising his talent and character, and shared her desire to meet him and play like him. She also wished him success in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, hoping he leads India to victory.
"This is a monumental moment for me. I never anticipated anything like this. Receiving a message from my idol feels like a personal achievement. Thank you so much for this. I would love to meet you, Hardik sir. I admire you greatly, both as a player and as a person," she said.
"I wish you all the best for the T20 World Cup. Our blessings are with you. Keep pushing forward and help India lift the trophy," Gautami added.
In the match against GG, RCB showcased their dominance by winning by 61 runs, marking their fifth consecutive victory and solidifying their position at the top of the points table.
RCB batted first, scoring 178/6 in 20 overs, with Gautami Naik leading the charge with her 73 runs. Contributions from Smriti Mandhana (26) and Richa Ghosh (27) were crucial in helping RCB recover from an early setback. For GG, Ash Gardner and Kashvee Gautam each took two wickets.
In response, GG struggled against RCB's pace attack, losing early wickets. Sayali Sathghare made a significant impact by taking two wickets in the second over, leaving GG at 5/3 within three overs. Despite a resilient 54 from Ash Gardner, GG could only manage 117/8 in their innings. Sayali was the standout bowler with figures of 3/21, supported by Nadine de Klerk (2/17) and Lauren Bell (1/23).