Hardik Pandya Credits Mahieka Sharma for Reigniting Cricket Passion

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has opened up about the transformative impact his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma has had on his personal life and cricketing career. In a candid interview, the cricketer revealed that Mahieka helped him rediscover his love for the game after he realized he had only tapped 40% of his batting potential.

Realizing Untapped Potential

Speaking to JioStar, Hardik admitted that he had not fully utilized his abilities as a batter until recently. “After the last IPL, I realised that I really wanted to play to my full potential. I think until now, I haven’t utilised more than 40 per cent of my batting potential. What I know as a cricketer, what I imagine, what I manifest, and how I practice, have not translated into performance by more than 40 per cent,” he said.

The star cricketer explained how Mahieka’s entry into his life sparked a renewed enthusiasm for cricket. “We started talking about the sport and how to bring that child back. Mahieka helped me rediscover that excitement for the game that I always had,” Hardik added.

Transforming Dedication Into Results

The transformation was evident in his dedication to improving his game. Hardik underwent rigorous training sessions, spending six to seven hours on the ground daily to work on his batting. This renewed commitment came after conversations with Mahieka about reigniting his passion for cricket.

On Valentine’s Day 2026, Hardik made his feelings permanent by getting an ‘M’ tattoo for Mahieka inked on the back of his neck. The design evolved into an elaborate piece featuring two leopards, symbolizing their bond and shared strength.

Tattoo artist Sunny Bhanushali explained that the design represents their partnership—one leopard bold and ambitious, the other graceful and supportive. “This tattoo is not a decoration; it’s a story permanently carried,” he said.

Hardik confirmed his relationship with Mahieka in late 2025, over a year after his divorce from Natasa Stankovic. The couple has since been frequently spotted together, with Mahieka also spending time with Hardik and Natasa’s son, Agastya Pandya.