Mumbai’s day could have gone downhill very quickly after Rohit Sharma was dismissed off a golden duck. But it became a platform for a hero who emerged unexpectedly.
Hardik Tamore, a 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, rose to the occasion with a match-defining performance to help Mumbai score a dominating total against Uttarakhand on December 26, 2025, during the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Starting the innings with a wobbly Mumbai side, Tamore batted with a level of maturity that was not commensurate with the situation. He batted with the finesse that was required and scored a brilliant 93 off 82 deliveries. This ensured that when he walked back into the pavilion, his side had retrieved the situation with a commendable total of 331 for 7.
Who is Hardik Tamore?
Born on October 19, 1997, in Thane, Maharashtra, Tamore has flown under the radar with his excellent domestic cricket in Mumbai. A right-handed batsman with aggressive playing style and skilled wicket-keeper, he has been his team for many in domestic Mumbai, playing for Mumbai, West Zone, and many Mumbai-based franchises Aakash Tigers and Shivaji Park Lions. Even though he hasn’t made headlines many times, his teammates are very aware of his importance.
The ‘Hitman’ Doppelganger
Ironically, what was equally interesting was that the internet had spotted Tamore for another reason, and that was for his likeness with that of Rohit Sharma. When a photo of their earlier match against Sikkim was circulated online, fans were jokingly referring to him as “doppelganger” of Rohit.
However, when it comes to the actual performance on the cricket field, all of Tamore’s innings had substance. With the likes of Musheer Khan and Sarfaraz Khan contributing fifties to the cause, he managed to rebuild the innings. However, towards the end, he changed his gear as well as his ability to hit fours and sixes. His inning was complemented by a 95-run partnership with Shams Mulani.
Tamore’s own arc has never been about functioning on the fast lane. From his List A debut in 2020 till now, he has been Mumbai’s crisis player, the one who delivers during difficult times. When he played against Uttarakhand, he not only saved his team’s innings but also reminded all of us of one thing: Mumbai’s power lies beyond its heroes.