IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya’s Monster Six Stuns Gautam Gambhir, Captain Surya Teases Shivam Dube

IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya’s Monster Six Stuns Gautam Gambhir, Captain Surya Teases Shivam Dube

Nagpur, Jan 20, 2026 — Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya grabbed headlines even before the start of the T20 series against New Zealand, as his explosive hitting during a net session left head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav visibly astonished.

Hardik, who was rested along with Jasprit Bumrah during the recent ODI series against New Zealand, is now set to return to action ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, which begins next month. The five-match T20I series between India and New Zealand gets underway on January 21, with the opening match scheduled at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur.

Hardik Lights Up the Nets

Ahead of the first T20I, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video from the team’s net session on social media. In the clip, Hardik Pandya is seen unleashing a flurry of towering sixes, much to the delight of his teammates and coaching staff.

Before starting his big-hitting routine, Hardik humorously asked people watching from the stands to move aside for safety. Reacting to this, head coach Gautam Gambhir jokingly asked him, “Where are you aiming? The North Wing?”

Moments later, Hardik answered in style. One of his massive hits sailed all the way into the second tier of the stadium, drawing gasps from everyone present.

Gambhir and Surya Left in Awe

The sheer distance of the six left Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav visibly stunned. As the ball landed deep into the stands, Surya couldn’t resist having some fun at the expense of fellow all-rounder Shivam Dube.

Pointing towards the second tier, Surya quipped, “Hey Dube, he’s hit it into the second tier!” sparking laughter in the camp.

With Hardik Pandya showing signs of peak form and confidence ahead of the crucial T20 World Cup year, his power-hitting display has raised excitement among fans and selectors alike. If this net session is any indication, the New Zealand bowlers could be in for a tough challenge when the series gets underway in Nagpur.Nagpur, Jan 20, 2026 — Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya grabbed headlines even before the start of the T20 series against New Zealand, as his explosive hitting during a net session left head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav visibly astonished.

Hardik, who was rested along with Jasprit Bumrah during the recent ODI series against New Zealand, is now set to return to action ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, which begins next month. The five-match T20I series between India and New Zealand gets underway on January 21, with the opening match scheduled at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur.