'Do not be negative': Hardik Pandya's dressing-room advice that revived Ishan Kishan's career
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 14, 2026
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Hardik Pandya’s simple yet impactful advice helped Ishan Kishan bounce back from a career low after losing his BCCI central contract in 2024. Following a match-winning knock against Namibia in the ICC T20 World Cup, Kishan revealed how Hardik urged him to stay positive and focus on performing in domestic cricket rather than dwelling on setbacks. This advice proved pivotal as Kishan went on to score heavily in various tournaments, including a century for Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy and an impressive IPL debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad. His strong performance earned him a recall to the Indian T20I squad, where he became the second-highest run-getter against New Zealand.
The story highlights the importance of resilience and mental strength in sports, as Kishan faced criticism over his lack of commitment to red-ball cricket. Despite this, he chose to stay focused and let his performances speak for him. Hardik’s support played a crucial role during this period, as the two spent time together training and bonding. This camaraderie and shared experience likely contributed to their mutual success in overcoming challenges.
Hardik himself was navigating his own struggles at the time, having been appointed Mumbai Indians captain despite backlash from fans loyal to Rohit Sharma. Despite these distractions, he remained dedicated to his craft, which eventually led to his appointment as India’s T20I vice-captain under Virat Kohli. His journey reflects the broader narrative of perseverance in high-stakes sports, where setbacks are inevitable but recovery requires unwavering determination.
Kishan’s remarkable resurgence serves as a testament to the power of mentorship and resilience. Hardik’s advice to stay positive and let one’s performance do the talking resonated deeply with Kishan, who used this mindset to rebuild his career. Their shared experiences demonstrate how collaboration and support can lead to success in even the most challenging circumstances.
For readers interested in global sports news, particularly cricket enthusiasts, this story offers insight into the mental battles faced by athletes and the role of mentorship in
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026