Hardik Pandya vs Krunal Pandya drama explodes during MI vs RCB clash, videos break the internet

The on-field rivalry between Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya grabbed attention during the recent IPL 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI). The clips quickly went viral, leading to widespread speculation among fans about a possible rift between the two brothers.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted 240/4 with strong knocks from Phil Salt and captain Rajat Patidar, then restricted the Mumbai Indians to 222/5. Rumours of tension between Hardik and Krunal began during India’s T20 World Cup 2026 celebrations in Ahmedabad and grew stronger after events at Wankhede.

The usual friendly bond between Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya was not visible during the match. Krunal started his spell with a sharp bouncer at Hardik, who responded with a cold stare without any interaction.

Hardik scored 40 off 22 balls while chasing a big target, but fell while trying to attack Jacob Duffy, who has been RCB’s top wicket-taker this season. Romario Shepherd took the catch to complete the dismissal.

The wicket came at a key moment in the game, and Krunal reacted with an emotional and aggressive celebration. It was the crucial breakthrough for Royal Challengers Bengaluru while defending the target.

Bhaivalry was at it's peak, emotions running high 🔥#MIvRCB | [Mumbai Indians, Rohit, Kohli, Tilak, Rajat Patidar] pic.twitter.com/CTEtAgcNiB

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 12, 2026

The tension grew further when both brothers avoided shaking hands after the match. While they remained professional, they did not acknowledge each other, and the moment quickly went viral, sparking speculation among fans about their relationship.

Krunal Pandya didn't went to shake hand with hardik Pandya.
Is everything normal between them??#hardikpandya #MIvRCB pic.twitter.com/WhxPKEwcZP

— impact player (@whypratik) April 12, 2026

Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya Rift Rumours Grow After T20 World Cup

Rumours of a family rift first appeared after the historic T20 World Cup win. Krunal Pandya and his wife Pankhuri Sharma stayed silent on social media and did not publicly congratulate Hardik Pandya for his performance and comeback.

The situation reportedly became more complicated after Hardik’s divorce from Natasa Stankovic. Krunal was seen at events with Natasa, while Hardik has been spotted with his girlfriend, Mahieka Sharma, showing a growing distance in the family.

Hardik also did not wish his brother on his recent birthday on social media. In addition, both brothers were involved in a ₹4 crore cheating case linked to their stepbrother, Vaibhav Pandya, earlier this year, adding more tension to their relationship.

Krunal Pandya Delivers Match-Winning Performance

Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a huge total of 241. Captain Rajat Patidar scored 53 runs off 20 balls, including five boundaries and one six. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt gave a strong start. Krunal Pandya then played a key role in defending the target with disciplined bowling.

Krunal conceded just 26 runs in four overs on a high-scoring pitch. He also took the important wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, breaking the Mumbai Indians’ momentum at a crucial stage and helping RCB stay in control.

Since joining the Lucknow Super Giants, Krunal has been a key player for RCB. He took 17 wickets in their title-winning campaign last season and has already picked up five wickets in four matches this season.

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