Hardik Pandya marked a memorable return to international cricket by delivering a match-winning all-round performance — and he credits a major part of that comeback to the unwavering support of his inner circle, especially his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma. The India vice-captain, who had been sidelined for more than two months, shone brightly in the opening T20I against South Africa in Cuttack, guiding India to a commanding 101-run victory on Tuesday, December 9.
The all-rounder had suffered a left quadriceps injury during the Asia Cup in the UAE, which ruled him out of the final against Pakistan and kept him away from competitive cricket longer than anticipated. Determined to return stronger, Hardik spent extended weeks at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, working tirelessly on strength, conditioning, and skill-based drills. Before wearing the India jersey again, he eased back into the rhythm by turning out for Baroda in domestic cricket.
But alongside the intense rehabilitation, Hardik also took time to focus on his personal life. His relationship with Mahieka Sharma came to light during this recovery phase. The two were first seen together at the Mumbai airport in October, sparking speculation. This was later confirmed when they shared glimpses of a beach vacation. Hardik also posted photos of Mahieka attending a family function, underscoring her significant place in his life.
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“Injuries test you mentally and fill your mind with doubt. A lot of credit for this comeback goes to my loved ones. A special mention to my partner — she has been nothing but the best since she entered my life. Many good things have happened after she arrived,” Hardik Pandya told BCCI after being named Player of the Match in Cuttack.
Interestingly, Hardik’s standout performance came on the same day he slammed certain paparazzi pages for circulating videos of Mahieka online without her consent. Hardik urged media outlets to respect privacy and criticised the increasing intrusion into players’ personal lives.
‘If you do not believe in yourself, how would others believe in you’
𝗕𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿. 𝗕𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿. 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 Ft. Hardik Pandya#TeamIndia | #INDvSA | @hardikpandya7 | @IDFCFIRSTBank https://t.co/IL8QRCFaeq
— BCCI (@BCCI) December 10, 2025
His appearance with Mahieka followed months after his amicable separation from his ex-wife, Natasha Stanković, in 2024. Hardik has openly spoken about the mutual respect surrounding their decision and their joint commitment to co-parenting their son, Agastya.
“I’ve always tried to be honest and real. I don’t sugarcoat things. For me, it’s about how I feel inside, not how people perceive me,” he said.
On the field, Hardik was a picture of confidence. His blistering 59 off 28 balls — laced with six boundaries and four sixes — came at a stage when India desperately needed momentum after slipping to 78 for 4. He took on Keshav Maharaj in the 13th over to shift the tempo decisively in India’s favour. With the ball, he delivered the key breakthrough by dismissing David Miller.
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India’s bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, completed the demolition job by skittling South Africa for just 74 — their lowest T20I total.
Hardik Pandya summed up his mindset simply: “It’s time to come back stronger, bigger, better. Every moment on the field feels special now. I trust myself more than ever.”
With next year’s T20 World Cup approaching, Hardik’s return couldn’t have been timed better. India and South Africa will meet again in the second T20I in Mullanpur on Thursday, December 11.
