The India and Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash at Dubai International Stadium was a spectacle of raw adrenaline, nail-biting moments, and cricketing brilliance. While Virat Kohli’s masterful batting and Indian bowler’s lethal performance kept fans on the edge of their seats, it was an off-field accessory that sparked a viral frenzy. Hardik Pandya, India’s swashbuckling all-rounder, not only delivered a match-winning performance but also turned heads with a wristwatch worth a staggering ₹7 crore ($800,000). The Richard Mille RM 27-02 CA FQ Tourbillon on his wrist became the unexpected protagonist of the high-octane encounter, blending cricket’s grit with unapologetic luxury.
The timepiece that outshone the trophy
As Pandya roared in celebration after dismissing Pakistan captain Babar Azam, cameras zoomed in on his fiery demeanour—and then lingered on his wrist. Social media erupted, not over the wicket, but over the shimmering, skeletonized dial of his Richard Mille watch. Dubbed the “RM 27-02 Rafael Nadal,” this limited-edition marvel is one of only 50 ever crafted. Its presence on Pandya’s wrist during a high-pressure match underscored a bold statement: cricket isn’t just about runs and wickets; it’s also a runway for personality.
Also READ: WATCH: Hardik Pandya gives Babar Azam a cheeky ‘bye-bye’ send-off in Champions Trophy 2025
Engineering marvel on the wrist: Built for the extreme
The RM 27-02 isn’t just a watch; it’s a feat of engineering. Designed in collaboration with tennis legend Rafael Nadal, the timepiece is tailored for athletes who push limits. Its Carbon TPT unibody baseplate—inspired by racing car chassis—ensures unmatched durability and shock resistance, critical for a sport like cricket where split-second movements reign. Weighing just 30 grams, the watch can withstand forces up to 10,000 Gs, making it a perfect companion for Pandya’s explosive dives and powerful swings.
The skeletonized dial offers a mesmerizing view of its intricate tourbillon movement, a mechanism designed to counter gravity’s effects on precision. For Pandya, whose game thrives on precision, the symbolism was undeniable.
Hardik Pandya’s fusion of sport and style
Pandya’s bling-heavy persona challenges cricket’s traditionally understated culture. Unlike legends like Rahul Dravid or Anil Kumble, who embodied humility, Pandya represents a new generation of athletes unafraid to merge sport with stardom. His watches, cars, and designer outfits aren’t mere accessories—they’re markers of a brand that transcends the game.
As debates rage about “style vs. substance,” Pandya’s answer is clear: why choose? His exceptional bowling performance and two crucial wickets in the match proved his mettle, while the RM 27-02 showcased his mindset. Pandya in the clash picked up the prized scalps of Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure and resulting in India’s victory against Pakistan by 6 wickets in the high-pressure encounter of ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
