India, March 11 -- When the Indian squad wins a high-stakes final by a commanding margin, the world notices more than just the scoreboard. During India's recent clash against the New Zealand national cricket team at the T20 World Cup in Ahmedabad, the team's performance once again highlighted their dominance. But under the stadium lights, another trend caught attention-luxury jewellery worn confidently on the cricket pitch, signalling a new era of athlete branding. Diamonds, studs and statement chains take centre stage Among the players leading this style shift is Abhishek Sharma. While his performance this season didn't quite hit the mark, Abhishek has developed a recognisable off-field and on-field signature: a diamond tennis necklace that mirrors his bold playing style. Jeweller and influencer Dhrumit Merulia recently detailed the craftsmanship behind the piece. The necklace features 48 cushion-shaped diamonds, each weighing roughly 50 cents, set in approximately 42 grams of 18-karat gold. Paired with sleek diamond studs, the look merges red-carpet luxury with elite sport. Abhishek is also rather fond of his Van Cleef, sporting a Vintage Alhambra Green Malachite Gold Bracelet with 5 motifs, which retails for a whopping Rs 5,20,000 - Rs 5,80,000. Hardik Pandya's signature "ice" Hardik's trademark look often includes solitaire earrings that have become a staple of his public image. For the latest tournament, the all-rounder opted for 3-carat princess-cut diamond studs. Estimated to be worth around Rs 50 lakh, the earrings have become as much a part of Pandya's identity. The cricketer has also long shown a preference for Richard Mille timepieces. For the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand last night, he opted for a different label on his wrist - Favre Leuba's first skeletonised model, the Chief Skeleton Ref. 00.20105.103.02.302. The watch features a 40 mm cushion-shaped case crafted from 316L stainless steel. Its skeletonised dial reveals the intricate mechanics within, highlighted by bridges and components finished in 4N 18K gold. Blue accents run along the minute track, complemented by a matching blue FKM rubber strap that adds a contemporary touch to the design. In the current market, the timepiece is priced at Rs.3,89,000. The cricketer has also added a new piece to his ever-growing jewellery collection - a locket bearing the initial "M", widely seen as a tribute to his girlfriend, model Mahieka Sharma. Adopting a subtle shine Other players are embracing the trend too, though often with a more understated aesthetic. Tilak Varma is frequently seen wearing solitaire-style studs in both ears-a shift from the single-ear piercing that dominated cricket fashion in earlier decades. His preference for princess-cut or small cluster studs adds a subtle sparkle that catches the light during play. Meanwhile, Washington Sundar leans toward a more minimal approach, typically wearing a single solitaire stud that complements his clean, understated style. Jewellery that balances style and functionality Even among bowlers, jewellery choices often balance style with practicality. Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has been spotted wearing a Cuban link chain during matches. The design-made of interlocking, flattened links-is known for its durability. This allows the chain to rest securely against the chest, even during the repetitive motion of a fast bowler's run-up and delivery. From diamond necklaces to gold chains and solitaire studs, the Indian team's evolving style signals a broader shift in athlete branding. As cricket enters an era shaped by social media, endorsements and global visibility, personal style is becoming part of the spectacle....