Mumbai Indians (MI) owner Nita Ambani recently revealed the remarkable story of purchasing Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya for just $10,000 in the 2015 IPL auction. At the time, Hardik was an unknown name, but today he stands as one of India’s top cricketers and the proud captain of MI.
Speaking at an event in Boston, Nita Ambani reflected on her journey of discovering young talents through MI’s scouting program. She recounted how her team would attend domestic tournaments, even in empty stadiums, searching for players with promise and determination. This led her to Hardik and his brother Krunal Pandya, who had faced financial struggles, surviving on Maggi noodles but demonstrating immense dedication to the sport.
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“In 2015, I bought Hardik Pandya for $10,000 in the auction. And today, he is the proud captain of Mumbai Indians,” Nita Ambani shared, highlighting the player’s incredible rise to fame. She also spoke about discovering other talents, including India’s star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who was first recommended to her by MI legend Lasith Malinga.
Nita Ambani praised the Mumbai Indians as “the nursery of cricket in India,” emphasizing the franchise’s role in nurturing young players like Hardik, Bumrah, and Tilak Varma, who have gone on to represent the national team.
Hardik Pandya’s return to MI after a successful stint with the Gujarat Titans, where he won an IPL title as captain, has excited fans. In a heartfelt message, he expressed gratitude to MI supporters, saying, “I am coming back to my family where it all started… We created history as a team, and now I am looking forward to creating some wonderful moments with the boys once again.”
With Pandya back at the helm, MI fans are hopeful for another victorious season.
