There were several thrilling moments during the IPL 2026 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday night, but one unexpected reaction from the stands ended up stealing the spotlight on social media.
During Krunal Pandya’s spell, Sunrisers Hyderabad CEO Kavya Maran was caught on camera reacting to one of the RCB all-rounder’s deliveries. As Krunal bowled one of his trademark short balls, Kavya appeared surprised and turned towards people sitting next to her with a puzzled expression. She was then seen imitating his bowling action with her hands, seemingly questioning whether the delivery was legal.
The video quickly went viral online, with many fans claiming that Kavya appeared to ask, “Is he chucking?” while reacting to Krunal’s bowling action. The moment came during a high-scoring encounter, particularly after Krunal bowled a sharp short delivery to Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Krunal Pandya’s bowling style has been a major talking point throughout IPL 2026. The left-arm spinner has impressed many with his clever variations, changes in release points, and ability to mix bouncers with slower deliveries and yorkers. However, Kavya Maran’s reaction has now added a fresh debate around his bowling action.
In cricket, allegations of chucking are considered extremely serious, and the viral clip has now placed extra attention on Krunal’s bowling. Despite the online chatter, the all-rounder has enjoyed a strong season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Since joining RCB in 2025, Krunal Pandya has become an important part of the team with both bat and ball. In IPL 2026, he has picked up 11 wickets in 13 innings while maintaining an economy rate of under nine runs per over. With the bat, he has scored 182 runs at an impressive average of 45.50 and a strike rate of 145.60, including a match-winning knock of 73 against his former franchise Mumbai Indians in Raipur.
