In the world of cricket, where every shot and strategic decision has the potential to shape a match, Manish Pandey stands out as one of India’s most versatile and accomplished cricketers. Known for his elegance, determination, and exceptional skill, Pandey has earned a reputation as a reliable middle-order batsman. His career journey, from domestic cricket to representing India on the international stage, showcases his resilience and passion for the game.
Early Life and Cricket Beginnings
Manish Pandey was born on 10th September 1989 in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India. From a young age, he demonstrated a keen interest in cricket, developing his skills in domestic cricket. A right-handed middle-order batsman, Pandey plays for Karnataka in domestic cricket, where he has been an instrumental figure in his team’s success. His technical prowess and calm approach to batting earned him recognition, and he quickly became one of the top prospects in Indian cricket.
Breakthrough in IPL
Pandey’s breakthrough in the Indian Premier League (IPL) came in 2009 when he played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Batting as a middle-order batsman, he made history by becoming the first Indian player to score a century in the IPL. This remarkable achievement was a turning point in his career, bringing him widespread attention and marking the beginning of his successful IPL journey.
In the 2025 season, Pandey was retained by KKR for Rs 75 lakhs, where he will continue to showcase his talent. His consistency with the bat earned him a spot in other IPL franchises over the years, further cementing his status as one of the most dependable players in the league.
IPL Career and Franchise Changes
Pandey’s IPL career has seen him represent multiple teams, with each stint offering opportunities for him to shine. Initially bought by Mumbai Indians at the inaugural IPL Auction in 2008 for a base price of $30,000, he was not a prominent player in his first season. However, his time with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2009 proved to be highly successful. There, he was chosen as a specialized middle-order batsman and played a key role in the team’s lineup.
Pandey continued to move between teams, playing for Pune Warriors India in the IPL seasons of 2011, 2012, and 2013. His consistent performances led him to be retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the 2014, 2015, and 2016 seasons. During these years, Pandey became a crucial part of KKR’s middle order, contributing with key knocks throughout the competition.
In 2018, Manish Pandey became one of the highest-paid cricketers in the IPL, reflecting his growing stature in the league. His valuable contributions over the years, both as a top-order and middle-order batsman, made him a sought-after player in the IPL auctions.
International Career and Contributions
Alongside his IPL success, Manish Pandey earned a spot in India’s national cricket team. Known for his ability to anchor innings and play under pressure, he has represented India in various formats, including One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals. His composure and technique have often been crucial in stabilizing India’s middle order, and he has provided vital contributions in numerous key matches.
Pandey’s international journey reflects his consistency as a batsman who can adapt to different formats and conditions. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations has made him an asset to the Indian cricket team, even though his appearances have been intermittent over the years.
Key Achievements and Career Statistics
Throughout his career, Pandey has been recognized for his consistent performances across formats. In domestic cricket, he has been a key player for Karnataka, leading them to success in various tournaments. His IPL career has also been decorated with numerous match-winning innings, with Pandey often stepping up when his team needs stability in the middle order.
Career statistics for Pandey in both domestic and international cricket reflect his ability to score runs and provide stability. He has often played the role of a finisher in limited-overs cricket, coming in during challenging situations and guiding his team to victory.
Personal Life and Interests
Off the field, Manish Pandey maintains a low-key, private life. Known for his humility and dedication to the sport, he keeps his personal life away from the media. Pandey is married to actor and model Ashrita Shetty, and the couple enjoys a quiet life away from the limelight.
Manish is also known for his fitness regimen, which he attributes to maintaining a high level of physical conditioning throughout his career. His commitment to his personal and professional life reflects his disciplined approach to the game.
Manish Pandey Biography
- Real Name: Manish Krishnanand Pandey
- Nickname: Pandiya
- Profession: Indian International cricketer
- Nationality: Indian
- Ethnicity: Indian
- Religion: Hinduism
- Caste: General
- Net Worth: Rs 63 Crores
- Batting Style: Right-hand Batsman
- Bowling Style: Right-arm medium
- Playing Role: All-rounder
Manish Pandey’s Physical Status
- Height: 1.73 m
- Weight: 70 Kg
- Body Measurements: Chest: 42 inches, Waist: 34 inches, Biceps: 12 inches
- Build: Athletic
- Eye color: Black
- Hair color: Black
Manish Pandey’s Personal Life
- Date of Birth: 10 September 1989
- Place of Birth: Nainital, Uttarakhand
- School: Kendriya Vidyalaya ASC Centre, Bengaluru
- College: Jain University, Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Highest Educational Qualifications: Graduate
- Zodiac Sign: Virgo
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
- Food Habits: Vegetarian
- Hobbies: Doing Adventure sports
Manish Pandey Family Life
- Mother’s Name: Tara Pandey
- Father’s Name: G.S Pandey
- Sibling’s Name: Anita Pandey
- Marital Status: Married
- Spouse Name: Ashrita Shetty
- Children’s Name: Not Available
Manish Pandey Favourites
- Favorite Book: “Every Second Counts” by Lance Armstrong and Sally Jenkins
- Favorite Actor: Amitabh Bachan
- Favorite Actress: Priyamani
- Favorite Band: Coldplay
- Favorite Bowler: Morne Morkel
- Favorite Batsman: Rahul Dravid
- Favorite Food: Prawns, Chicken Biryani, Masala puri, and Pani puri
Major Achievements of Manish Pandey
- During the 2009 IPL season, Manish Pandey made history by becoming the first Indian to achieve a century in the event. For Royal Challengers Bangalore, his unbroken 114 off 73 balls demonstrated his enormous talent and promise.
- Pandey was a key member of India’s Under-19 cricket side that won the U-19 World Cup in 2008. His consistent performances throughout the competition demonstrated his capacity to compete on a global scale.
- In 2015, he made his international debut for India in an ODI against Zimbabwe. Pandey delivered a match-winning century, demonstrating his composure and agility under duress.
- In 2017, Pandey and MS Dhoni broke the record for India’s best sixth-wicket partnership in ODIs. Their undefeated 98-run stand aided India’s thrilling victory over Australia.
- In the 2018 Nidahas Trophy final against Bangladesh, Pandey hit a crucial 28* off 19 balls to help India win. His poise in the difficult final moments demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure.
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