India’s chase in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against South Africa national cricket team took a dramatic turn when Hardik Pandya failed to capitalize on a crucial moment. Batting on 18 off 16 balls, the Indian all-rounder attempted a big shot off Keshav Maharaj on the very first delivery of the 15th over.

However, the timing wasn’t right, and the ball landed safely in the hands of Tristan Stubbs, bringing an abrupt end to Pandya’s innings and putting India under serious pressure in their 188-run chase. Moments after the dismissal, the broadcast cameras quickly shifted toward the stands where Pandya’s girlfriend, Mahieka Sharma, was present.

In a clip that soon went viral on social media, Mahieka was seen clapping right after Pandya walked back to the pavilion. The unexpected reaction caught fans off guard and sparked widespread discussion online, especially as India had pinned significant hopes on Pandya to anchor the chase.

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Pandya’s knock never really gained momentum despite a brief partnership with Shivam Dube. The duo added 35 runs for the sixth wicket, with Pandya managing one six during his short stay at the crease. But just when India needed stability, Maharaj’s over completely turned the match.

Hardik Pandya’s girlfriend Mahieka Sharma was clapping when Hardik got out 😭 pic.twitter.com/GFJvy5NA23

— Tejash (@Tejashyyyyy) February 22, 2026

After dismissing Pandya, Maharaj struck again to remove Rinku Singh for a two-ball duck, with Stubbs taking another catch at the same position. Two deliveries later, Arshdeep Singh also fell to a similar catch, completing a dramatic collapse.

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India were eventually bundled out for just 111 in 18.5 overs while chasing 188. Dube top-scored with 42 off 37 balls, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to deliver. For South Africa, Marco Jansen starred with the ball, claiming four wickets for 22 runs, while Maharaj finished with three key scalps in a dominant 76-run victory.