Hardik Pandya trolled for ‘talking’ during Pahalgam victims tribute: ‘Can be a good cricketer but not citizen’: | Video

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya faced huge backlash after he was “talking and laughing” during a one-minute silence in solidarity with Pahalgam terrorist attack victims before playing against SRH on Wednesday. Netizens pointed out that it was “shameful” for him to do so and expressed utter shock after watching it.

Netizens react

“Hardik pandya This is how you behave on silance (sic) of 1 min for the people died in attack.. Keep talking and laughing. Shameful yarr.. You can be good cricketer but not a good or responsible citizen of india. #PahalgamTerroristAttack (sic),” one of the users said. Another said, “He is like this only senseless and shameless most selfish person (sic).” “Hardik pandya i have so much respect for you, but that's how you behave in moment of silence? Continuously kept on talking and laughing (sic).” “Hardik Pandya was laughing and talking during that moment of silence. It's not a joke Hardik Pandya. 😡💔 (sic)” were some other comments made.

“Feels good (on the applause). I would like to pass my condolences to the victims of the terrorist attack. We'll bowl first.” Pandya stated after winning the toss. All players, including members of the support staff and members of the broadcasting team wore black armbands in Hyderabad.

Facts about Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya, 31, is an Indian international cricketer hailing from Choryasi, Surat, Gujarat. He is a dynamic all-rounder known for his aggressive batting, fast-medium bowling, and charismatic presence on the field. Pandya plays for the Indian national team and has represented his domestic side, Baroda, in various formats.

Pandya debuted for India in all three formats in 2016, quickly establishing himself as a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket.​ In 2022, he led the Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title, showcasing his leadership and all-round capabilities.​

He played a pivotal role in India's victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, taking 11 wickets and scoring 144 runs, and was named the tournament's vice-captain. Pandya became the first Indian all-rounder to be ranked No. 1 in the ICC T20I rankings.

In Match No. 20 of the IPL 2025 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, he became the first Indian cricketer to the double of 5000 runs and 200 wickets in T20s.