India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 triumph over New Zealand delivered unforgettable sporting drama, but the celebrations that followed have also sparked a wave of online debate. A viral video featuring Hardik Pandya and his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma lying together on the podium during the post-match festivities has become the latest talking point across social media.
The clip, which surfaced shortly after the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, shows Hardik and Mahieka relaxing on the stage area amid the ongoing celebrations.
Confetti is scattered across the ground while players, officials and support staff move around the stadium in the background.
In the video, the couple appear to be lying side by side on the podium structure while soaking in the atmosphere after India’s historic victory.
What the hell is Hardik Pandya doing here? 😭 Looks like he was just left alone on the ground to get intimate with Mehieka last night 😂 pic.twitter.com/iNYPQEPlD8 — Kusha Sharma (@Kushacritic) March 9, 2026
The moment quickly began circulating across Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), with the footage attracting thousands of reactions and comments.
Netizens slam Hardik Pandya in the comment section
While some fans viewed the scene as a harmless and emotional moment between the couple after a long tournament, others criticised the act, arguing that the victory stage should have been treated more formally.
Several social media users expressed their disapproval in the comments section of the viral posts.
One user wrote that the moment looked inappropriate given the significance of the occasion, while another commented that celebrations should maintain a certain level of decorum.
Some viewers also compared the couple to other high-profile cricketing pairs, sparking debates about how public celebrations should unfold during major sporting events.
However, a section of fans defended the couple, pointing out that the celebrations took place after a tense and exhausting tournament. They argued that players and their loved ones often share emotional moments after such historic victories, and that the clip simply captured a candid glimpse of personal celebration amid the chaos of the night.
Earlier in the evening, Mahieka Sharma had already drawn attention when she rushed onto the field moments after India sealed the title. Cameras captured her hugging Hardik Pandya and planting a peck on his cheek while the cricketer stood draped in the Indian tricolour. Videos from the stadium also showed the couple dancing together as the team celebrated their championship win.
India’s victory itself was monumental, with the team posting a strong total before restricting New Zealand in the chase to clinch the T20 World Cup title. As celebrations continue across the country, the viral clip of Pandya and Mahieka has added another layer of conversation to what has been an unforgettable night for Indian cricket.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.
Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.
