India all-rounder Hardik Pandya won hearts during the fifth T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad, not just for his explosive batting but also for a touching on-field gesture towards an injured cameraman.
The incident occurred when Hardik smashed a towering six off Corbin Bosch towards the deep mid-wicket region. The ball travelled flat and fast into the boundary ropes and struck a cameraman, who was momentarily unaware of the incoming shot as he focused on the Indian dugout. The impact left the cameraman in visible discomfort, with the support staff immediately rushing in to attend to him. An ice pack was applied as the cameraman received medical attention near the boundary.
Soon after the situation was brought under control, Hardik walked across and embraced the cameraman, checking on his well-being and offering reassurance. The warm gesture was captured on camera and quickly drew applause from fans inside the Narendra Modi Stadium, with the moment spreading rapidly on social media.
Hardik’s act of sportsmanship came amid a high-intensity phase of the match, where he was in devastating form with the bat. Despite the competitive atmosphere, the Indian vice-captain’s concern for the cameraman stood out as a reminder of the human side of the game.
The cameraman was later reported to be stable, and play resumed shortly after. While Hardik’s blistering knock dominated the scorecard, it was this simple, empathetic moment that added an emotional layer to an already eventful night in Ahmedabad.
