Kamal Ghorui
India secured a thrilling victory over England on Thursday in the semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, sealing their place in the final against New Zealand national cricket team this Sunday. The high-stakes match took place at Wankhede Stadium and drew a crowd of more than 30,000 spectators, including several Bollywood celebrities.Among those present was Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s girlfriend, actor Mahieka Sharma, who attended the game with his young son Agastya Pandya. However, what ended up going viral online wasn’t just their presence in the stands, but Agastya’s animated reaction after his father was dismissed during India’s innings.
Batting first after England skipper Harry Brook chose to field, India got off to a strong start thanks to an impressive 89-run knock by Sanju Samson. Pandya walked in later and initially took time to settle at the crease, but eventually found his rhythm, smashing two sixes to push India’s score beyond 250.His innings, however, ended dramatically in the final over when he attempted to steal an additional run and was caught outside the crease, resulting in a run-out. Commentators questioned his shot selection, and it seemed his son Agastya felt the same way.As Pandya headed back to the pavilion, Agastya called out to him several times before Mahieka managed to draw his attention. The youngster then appeared to scold his father for attempting a flick shot, gesturing animatedly and questioning his choice of stroke. Standing beside him, Mahieka looked visibly puzzled by the outburst. The moment was captured during the live broadcast and soon spread across social media platforms. “When Hardik Pandya got out his son was angry on him,” one person quipped on Twitter.Pandya later made amends during England’s chase. In a crucial 19th over, he delivered a tight spell and dismissed Sam Curran, helping India clinch a memorable win.Agastya is the son of Hardik Pandya and his former wife, actor Natasa Stankovic. The couple married in 2020 but separated in 2024, with their divorce finalised later that year. Despite the split, they continue to co-parent their son.Pandya began dating Mahieka, a 25-year-old model and actor, in 2025. Earlier this year, he made their relationship public with a heartfelt birthday post for her on Instagram. Mahieka has frequently been spotted cheering him on during matches throughout the ongoing World Cup.India will now face New Zealand in the tournament’s final at Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.
