Shubman Gill clears air on rift with Hardik Pandya in Instagram story

Social media was abuzz after a clip from the IPL 2025 Eliminator between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) went viral — not for the cricket, but for an allegedly awkward moment between GT skipper Shubman Gill and MI’s Hardik Pandya during the toss. The moment in question? Gill appeared to sidestep Pandya’s handshake after the coin toss, fuelling speculation of a rift between the two high-profile players.

The clip quickly garnered millions of views and sparked debate across platforms, with fans and pundits questioning if all was well between the former teammates.

Gill also faced criticisms for this kind of gesture towards his Indian team-mate. 

"Shubman gill involved in ego war with Hardik Pandya  Hardik tried to shake his hands but Shubman didn’t because of his fragile ego that too in front of the one who made his t20 career," one user wrote while criticizing Gill.  

Gill Sets the Record Straight on Instagram

Putting an end to the rumours, Shubman Gill took to his Instagram story to clear the air. In a calm but pointed message, he wrote:

"Nothing but love. Don’t believe everything you see on the Internet @hardikpandya93"

Shubman Gill via Instagram pic.twitter.com/8ZX6v188ew

— Abhijeet ♞ (@TheYorkerBall) May 31, 2025

The message, accompanied by a heart emoji and a tag to Hardik Pandya, was Gill’s way of shutting down the noise and reiterating that there’s no bad blood between the two cricketers.

Close Bonds Despite Franchise Shifts

Gill and Pandya shared a successful stint together at Gujarat Titans, with Hardik leading the side to an IPL title in 2022. Though Hardik returned to the Mumbai Indians as captain in 2024, their professional shift never suggested personal fallout—until the viral video fanned the flames of doubt.

Internet May Mislead, But Gill Keeps It Classy

In an era where a few seconds of footage can stir widespread controversy, Shubman Gill’s dignified response serves as a reminder that not everything viral is valid. By addressing the issue directly and respectfully, Gill not only squashed the rumours but also set an example of grace and sportsmanship, on and off the field.