Hardik Pandya once again made headlines, not just for his performance on the field but also for his extravagant taste in luxury watches. During the high-stakes India vs Pakistan match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in the Champions Trophy 2025, Pandya played a crucial role in dismissing Babar Azam early in the game. However, even before the match reached its peak intensity, fans were already talking about something else—his ultra-exclusive Richard Mille RM 27-02 watch, a timepiece valued at nearly ₹7 crores.
Pandya has always been known for his love of high-end accessories, especially when it comes to watches. His collection boasts some of the most sought-after timepieces in the world, making him one of the most stylish cricketers off the field. The Richard Mille RM 27-02, which he sported during the match, is an elite collector’s item, originally designed in collaboration with tennis legend Rafael Nadal. The watch is famous for its lightweight design and extreme durability, making it perfect for athletes who engage in high-intensity sports.
While Pandya’s aggressive bowling and all-round skills have been a major asset to Team India, his fashion choices continue to be a talking point among fans and experts alike. The Richard Mille RM 27-02 is not just an expensive accessory—it represents cutting-edge technology in watchmaking. Constructed with a unique NTPT carbon case and a skeletonized movement, the watch is designed to withstand extreme shocks, making it ideal for professional athletes.
Luxury watch enthusiasts often consider Richard Mille a brand that blends innovation with exclusivity. The RM 27-02, in particular, is known for its extreme rarity, as only a few pieces exist globally. Given Pandya’s penchant for statement pieces, it’s no surprise that he added this watch to his already impressive collection. His previous timepieces include Patek Philippe Nautilus and other Richard Mille models, each costing several crores.
The sight of Pandya wearing such an expensive watch on the field sparked discussions on social media. Some fans admired his style and confidence, while others debated the practicality of wearing a multi-crore timepiece during a high-pressure match. However, this isn’t the first time a cricketer has flaunted a luxurious watch on the field. Players like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni have also been seen sporting high-end watches during press conferences and off-field appearances, but Pandya took it to another level by wearing his during an international match.
Despite the buzz around his watch, Pandya remained focused on his performance. His early dismissal of Babar Azam set the tone for India’s bowling attack, keeping the Pakistani batting lineup under pressure. His aggressive approach, combined with precise bowling, ensured that India had the upper hand early in the game. Fans cheered as he celebrated Babar’s wicket with his signature intensity, proving once again why he is one of the most valuable all-rounders in the squad.
Beyond the glamour and the on-field heroics, Pandya’s love for luxury watches highlights a growing trend among athletes who see timepieces as more than just functional accessories. For many, watches symbolize achievement, status, and personal style. Cricketers, footballers, and basketball stars frequently collaborate with luxury brands, turning watches into investment pieces that hold their value over time.
While some may question the practicality of wearing such an expensive watch during a match, Pandya’s choice reflects his personality—bold, unapologetic, and stylish. Whether it’s his game or his fashion sense, he commands attention every time he steps onto the field. The India vs Pakistan match was already one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament, and Pandya added an extra layer of intrigue with his stunning timepiece.
As the Champions Trophy 2025 progresses, fans will continue watching Pandya closely, both for his game-changing performances and his off-field statements. Whether it’s his explosive batting, fierce bowling, or eye-catching accessories, he never fails to make an impact. His Richard Mille watch may have stolen the spotlight for a moment, but it’s his performance that truly defines his legacy on the cricket field.
Pandya’s choice to wear such a rare and valuable watch during a match raises an interesting conversation about luxury in sports. While cricket has traditionally been associated with discipline and focus, modern players are embracing a more flamboyant lifestyle, blending high performance with personal branding. The presence of luxury items on the field is no longer surprising, with endorsements and sponsorships often playing a role in shaping an athlete’s public image. Pandya, known for his fearless cricket and equally bold fashion choices, continues to redefine what it means to be a modern sports icon.
This fascination with elite timepieces extends beyond sports. Celebrities, business tycoons, and even tech entrepreneurs view watches as status symbols, with brands like Richard Mille, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet commanding enormous prices. Pandya’s watch isn’t just about opulence—it’s about craftsmanship, exclusivity, and a reflection of his personality. Unlike mass-produced luxury accessories, limited-edition watches like the RM 27-02 are hand-assembled with precision engineering, making them a coveted possession among collectors.
The timing of Pandya’s bold fashion statement also aligns with the increasing presence of luxury brands in cricket. With the sport gaining a global audience, high-end fashion and accessories are becoming integral to a player’s persona. From customized sports gear to extravagant lifestyle choices, modern cricketers are no longer confined to their game; they are evolving into global influencers who command attention both on and off the field. Pandya’s watch might be worth nearly ₹7 crores, but for him, it represents something much bigger—an assertion of individuality and success.
Even as the debate around his extravagant choice continues, one thing remains certain—Pandya knows how to keep all eyes on him. Whether it’s through his fiery bowling spells, his explosive batting, or his high-end fashion, he ensures that he is always at the center of attention. His love for luxury, combined with his passion for cricket, makes him a unique figure in the sport. The India vs Pakistan match may have been about skill and strategy, but for Pandya, it was also about making a statement, proving once again that he is more than just a cricketer—he is a brand in himself.
