Hardik Pandya’s ‘Don’t Be a Crybaby’ Advice That Reignited Ishan Kishan’s Career

NEW DELHI – Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has opened up about the pivotal role all-rounder Hardik Pandya played in his career resurgence following a turbulent period in early 2024. After losing his BCCI central contract and facing scrutiny over his commitment to domestic cricket, Kishan credited Pandya’s blunt but effective mentorship for helping him regain his focus and form.

Overcoming the Contract Setback

Early 2024 marked a challenging phase for Kishan. The 26-year-old was omitted from the BCCI’s central contract list after opting out of the Ranji Trophy, a decision that drew criticism from selectors and fans alike. During this low point, Kishan found support in his Mumbai Indians teammate and close friend, Hardik Pandya.

Reflecting on that period, Kishan revealed that Pandya urged him to shun negativity and focus entirely on his work ethic. The two spent considerable time training together at the Kiran More Academy in Baroda, away from the media glare.

“I am usually not the kind of person who will keep quiet,” Kishan said regarding his hiatus. “But because I was in touch with [Hardik], he told me, ‘It’s up to you whether you want to talk to somebody about it or go negative about it. It is in your hand.’ And that was playing cricket and scoring runs.”

The Baroda Training Camp

While Pandya himself faced a hostile reception during the IPL 2024 season after taking over the Mumbai Indians captaincy from Rohit Sharma, he remained a pillar of strength for Kishan. The duo’s training regime in Baroda focused on technical adjustments and mental resilience.

Hardik emphasized the importance of “silent hard work” to the young keeper-batter. “Hard work is supposed to happen when no one is watching. And that is the actual benefit,” Pandya noted, reflecting on Kishan’s journey. “No matter what happens in life, do not be a crybaby. Get up in the morning, work hard, put your head down and sleep. Again, repeat it.”

Key Milestones in Kishan’s Return

Kishan responded to the criticism with his bat. His return to domestic red-ball cricket was marked by an aggressive century (111 off 126 balls) for India C in the Duleep Trophy against India B, signaling his readiness for long-format cricket.

• Duleep Trophy 2024: Scored a century (111) in his comeback match.
• Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Continued to feature for Jharkhand, strengthening his domestic credentials.
• IPL 2025 Auction: Secured a massive INR 11.25 crore deal with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), ending his stint with Mumbai Indians.

Looking Ahead to IPL 2025

Kishan’s domestic resurgence caught the eye of IPL franchises. In the IPL 2025 mega auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad broke the bank to acquire his services, viewing him as a key explosive opener. The upcoming season presents a fresh canvas for Kishan to translate his domestic form into T20 dominance.

Pandya expressed pride in Kishan’s ability to weather the storm. “He has taken the torch, responded with the bat, and I am really proud of it,” the all-rounder concluded.

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