Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya expressed his gratitude to the ground staff at Wankhede Stadium with a generous gesture, handing each member a cheque reportedly worth Rs 10,000. The reward recognized their consistent support during his training sessions in the domestic red-ball season, where he focused on maintaining peak fitness and match readiness ahead of the T20 World Cup. With a history of injuries, Pandya’s preparation required meticulous effort, and the ground staff played a crucial role in ensuring the facilities were always in top condition for his practice.

Pandya publicly acknowledged the contribution of the MCA ground staff, thanking them for standing by him during a demanding training period. The gesture highlighted the often overlooked yet essential role that ground staff play in a cricketer’s journey.

During India’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign, Pandya was instrumental with both bat and ball. He amassed 199 runs in the tournament at an impressive strike rate of 163.11, frequently delivering in high-pressure situations. With the ball, he contributed significantly by opening the bowling attack and picking up eight wickets, consistently putting opposition teams on the back foot.

Fulfilling a promise he had made to the ground staff, Pandya distributed the cheques ahead of the IPL 2026 season. His generosity has also been noted off the field; fellow cricketer Jitesh Sharma praised him for his helpful nature, sharing that Pandya even gifted him a bat without being asked. Sharma described him as someone who is always ready to support young cricketers and peers alike.

Pandya is set to feature in IPL 2026 with the Mumbai Indians, who open their campaign against the Kolkata Knight Riders on March 30, aiming to carry forward his excellent form from the T20 World Cup into the new season.