Hardik Prajapati

Hardik Prajapati
Nationality: Estonia
Position: Batsman
Batting Style: Right Hand Bat
Bowling Style: Right Arm Offbreak
Date of Birth: 1987-04-08 Age: 38

Bio

Career Stats

Fixtures

Teams

Born on 8th April 1987, Hardik Prajapati's cricketing saga began in the dusty lanes of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where his early passion for the game was nurtured through countless hours of play with neighbourhood friends. Exhibiting a rare talent from a young age, Hardik caught the eye of coaches and selectors as he expertly wielded his bat, combining grace with aggression—a hallmark that would later define his batting style.

Hardik's professional journey unfolded when he made his debut for Gujarat in the Ranji Trophy at the age of 19. His impeccable ability to play spin and seam with equal ease made him a pillar of his domestic side. As a right-handed batsman, Hardik's repertoire included slicing cover drives and sumptuous flicks, allowing him to pile on runs while exuding an air of indomitable confidence. His skill with the bat was complemented by his subtle right-arm offbreaks, often breaking crucial partnerships, though he mostly remained a batting specialist.

Among his many achievements, the 2013-14 Ranji Trophy season marked a turning point. Hardik amassed over 900 runs, helping Gujarat secure their maiden Ranji title. His pivotal century against Karnataka in the semi-final is still recounted among fans as one of his finest hours, cementing him as a clutch performer in high-stakes situations.

Rivalries have sparked both tension and camaraderie in Hardik’s career. His continuous skirmishes with Mumbai bowlers set the stage for thrilling encounters, often resulting in match-winning innings that turned Hardik into a crowd favourite. A memorable clash came in the 2015 quarterfinals when he single-handedly steered his team to victory with a masterful 145 not out, despite an early top-order collapse.

Hardik’s batting arsenal, inherently aggressive yet remarkably composed, has made him a linchpin for his team. His broad stance and precise footwork often unnerved bowlers, while his off-spin, though not headline-grabbing, added strategic depth to his game.

A significant moment that showcased his impact came in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy where he captained Gujarat to a thrilling win, his tactical nous and on-field composure shining through the high-pressure tournament.

Though his journey bypassed the glamour of international fame, within the diary of Indian domestic cricket, Hardik Prajapati's legacy as a batsman par excellence continues to inspire budding cricketers across the nation.