As 2024 comes to a close, Google has unveiled its list of the most searched Indian celebrities of the year. Among the prominent names, Indian star all-rounder Hardik Pandya secured the fourth spot, reflecting his eventful year both on and off the cricket field. Pandya’s journey in 2024 was marked by dramatic highs and challenging lows.
Released by the Mumbai Indians (MI) before the IPL 2022 season, he scripted history by leading the Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title in his debut season as captain. Following another stellar campaign in 2023, he was traded back to MI in a record-breaking deal ahead of the IPL 2024 mini-auction.
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However, the trade stirred controversy, especially when Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as MI captain, sparking rumors that he had demanded the leadership role as part of the trade agreement. This move triggered a storm of criticism on social media, with Rohit Sharma’s fans expressing their discontent and trolling Pandya relentlessly.
Top trending athletes of 2024 globally, according to Google:
#1. Imane Khelif
#2. Mike Tyson
#3. Lamine Yamal
#4. Simone Biles
#5. Jake Paul
#6. Nico Williams
#7. Hardik Pandya
#8. Scottie Scheffler
#9. Shashank Singh
#10. Rodri— Pop Base (@PopBase) December 10, 2024
Unfortunately, Pandya’s captaincy stint with MI in 2024 turned out to be disappointing, as the team finished last on the points table. Despite the IPL debacle, Pandya showcased resilience, bouncing back on the international stage during the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States.
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Pandya delivered key performances throughout the tournament, but his heroics in the final against South Africa became the defining moment of the year. Defending nine runs in the last over, Pandya held his nerve to secure India’s first ICC Trophy in 11 years. His clutch performance not only silenced critics but also cemented his place in cricketing folklore.
Through a year of ups and downs, Hardik Pandya’s rollercoaster journey kept fans and critics alike glued, making him the most talked-about cricketer in India for 2024.
