Hardik Pandya Delights Young RCB Star Gautami Naik With Personal Message
Indian cricket sensation Hardik Pandya created a memorable moment for Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women's player Gautami Naik this week. The star all-rounder surprised the uncapped batter with a special video message following her impressive performance in the Women's Premier League.
A Match-Winning Innings Earns Special Recognition
Gautami Naik played a crucial role in RCB's victory over Gujarat Giants in Vadodara on Monday. The young batter scored her maiden WPL half-century, crafting 73 runs from just 55 deliveries. Her excellent performance helped RCB secure their fifth consecutive win of the WPL 2026 season, maintaining their unbeaten record and top position in the points table.
The team dominated the match completely, defeating Gujarat Giants by a convincing margin of 61 runs. This victory further solidified RCB's strong position in the tournament standings.
An Idol's Unexpected Response
In a video shared on RCB's official Instagram account, Gautami revealed her deep admiration for Hardik Pandya. She described him as her cricketing idol and expressed her desire to emulate his playing style.
"My cricketing idol is Hardik Pandya," Gautami stated in the video. "I want to play like him. I watch his matches during pressure situations all the time. I watch him play calmly, and that's my nature as well. I see myself being similar to him, and I want to play like him."
To her complete surprise, Hardik Pandya responded personally to her heartfelt admission. The Indian cricket star recorded a special video message congratulating Gautami on her achievement.
Pandya's Encouraging Words for the Young Talent
In his message, Pandya expressed genuine appreciation for being considered Gautami's idol. He offered warm congratulations and valuable advice for her cricketing journey ahead.
"Hi Gautami, Hardik here," Pandya began in the video. "I got to know that I am your cricketing idol. First of all, it feels really great to inspire a lot of young cricketers. And many congratulations on your first half-century. Enjoy the sport. I hope going forward in life, you do more and better for your franchise and for the country. Keep loving the sport, be disciplined and enjoy."
Gautami's Emotional Reaction to the Surprise
The young RCB player reacted with visible emotion upon receiving Pandya's message. She described the moment as incredibly significant in her life and career.
"This is a great moment for me," Gautami shared. "I didn't expect anything like this. I can't tell you how I am feeling right now. He is my idol and I am getting messages from him means I have achieved something in my life. Thank you so much for this."
Gautami expressed her admiration for Pandya both as a player and as a person. She revealed her hope to meet him personally someday and learn from his approach to the game.
"Hardik sir, I would like to meet you," she said. "I am a big fan of yours. I want to play like you. Keep encouraging me. And all the best for the T20 World Cup, hope you do well too. Our blessings are with you. Keep going and help India lift the World Cup."
A Heartwarming Cricket Connection
This exchange highlights the inspiring connections that form across generations in Indian cricket. Established stars like Hardik Pandya continue to motivate younger players through their performances and personal gestures.
Gautami Naik's impressive debut WPL fifty and Pandya's thoughtful response create a memorable story within the growing Women's Premier League ecosystem. Such moments demonstrate how cricket idols can positively influence emerging talents through simple acts of recognition and encouragement.
The Women's Premier League 2026 continues to showcase exciting cricket across multiple venues. Teams including Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru compete for top honors in this prestigious tournament.
