‘I’ll See You in the IPL’: Hardik Pandya’s Words That Fueled Praful Hinge’s Journey

Sunrisers Hyderabad's breakout pacer Praful Hinge has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in IPL 2026, but his journey to the spotlight is rooted in belief, resilience, and a defining moment with Hardik Pandya during the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Hinge, who scripted history on his IPL debut by becoming the first bowler to take three wickets in the opening over of an innings, recently opened up about the words that stayed with him long before his breakthrough moment.

The Message That Made a Difference

Facing Hardik Pandya in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match, Hinge admitted he was initially overwhelmed. Bowling to one of India's most destructive batters can intimidate even seasoned bowlers, but the young pacer quickly found his rhythm.

After executing his plans-mixing yorkers

with sharp bouncers-Hinge earned praise from Pandya mid-game. What followed after the match, however, left a lasting impact. "You're doing well, just keep at it. I will see you in the IPL," Pandya told him.

For Hinge, those words were more than encouragement-they were validation that he belonged at a higher level.

A Dream Debut That Fulfilled a Prediction

Fast forward to IPL 2026, and that prophecy has come true in spectacular fashion. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, Hinge delivered a dream debut, dismantling Rajasthan Royals with a sensational opening over that yielded three wickets.

It was a performance built on confidence and clarity-qualities that seemed to stem from years of preparation and moments like his interaction with Pandya. His ability to execute yorkers under pressure and maintain composure reflected a bowler ready for the big stage.

Humble Beginnings and Early Lessons

Hinge's cricketing journey began modestly. As a schoolboy, he started with tennis-ball cricket before formally entering structured training through a summer camp. Learning the basics from scratch, including the mechanics of fast bowling, he developed his craft step by step.

His father's support, though understated, played a crucial role. From enrolling him in training camps to encouraging independence, the foundation of Hinge's discipline was laid early.

Setbacks That Shaped His Career

Like many fast bowlers, Hinge's journey included setbacks. His stint at the MRF Pace Academy-a crucial stepping stone-was initially disrupted by a stress fracture in his back. The injury forced him to miss an entire season, testing his patience and resolve.

However, the recovery phase proved transformative. With focused rehabilitation and guidance, he returned stronger, picking up nearly 30 wickets in a domestic season and earning recognition at the Emerging India level.

His exposure to Australian conditions and interactions with bowlers like Josh Hazlewood and Jhye Richardson further refined his understanding of pace, fitness, and match preparation.

Mental Preparation and Match Awareness

One of the defining aspects of Hinge's approach is his emphasis on mental preparation. He revealed that he constantly visualises match situations, even while watching games, asking himself how he would bowl in specific scenarios.

This habit of simulating pressure situations appears to have translated seamlessly into his on-field performances, allowing him to stay composed during high-stakes moments like his IPL debut.

Eyes on the Bigger Prize

Despite his early success, Hinge remains focused on the bigger picture. His primary goal is to contribute to his team's success and help them lift the IPL trophy. At the same time, he aims to make the most of every opportunity, whether with the ball or in the field.

His ambition to even win the Best Fielder award reflects a mindset geared towards all-round excellence.

Praful Hinge's rise is a story of preparation meeting opportunity, but also of belief being reinforced at the right moment. Hardik Pandya's words during the Vijay Hazare Trophy may have seemed casual, but they carried the weight of recognition from an established star.