Kranti Gaud recreated Hardik Pandya’s iconic trophy pose after the final in Navi Mumbai.
Days after India’s glorious triumph at the ICC Women’s World Cup in Navi Mumbai, social media is still buzzing with heartwarming celebrations. One moment, in particular, has captured widespread attention: pacer Kranti Gaud brilliantly recreating all-rounder Hardik Pandya’s iconic celebratory pose. She posted a photo on Instagram mirroring Pandya’s famous gesture, a pose he popularized after India’s T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy victories. He also used it after the Asia Cup final, though without the trophy due to the controversial conclusion of those celebrations.
In the now-viral image, Gaud is seen placing the World Cup trophy on the pitch, striking the exact same pose with a knowing smile, and proudly pointing towards the gleaming title with both hands. Fans were quick to draw parallels between the two cricketers’ triumphant displays, making the post an instant hit.
Kranti Gaud’s Instagram post celebrating the World Cup win.
Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, the 22-year-old pacer was a phenomenal force throughout the tournament, playing a pivotal role in India’s journey to victory, especially in the final against South Africa. Gaud’s exceptional control and disciplined bowling were key factors in securing India’s first-ever Women’s World Cup title.
Her outstanding contributions haven’t gone unnoticed, earning her significant recognition back home. On Monday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav proudly announced a generous reward for Gaud. “Madhya Pradesh’s Kranti Gaud, who contributed significantly to the team’s victory with her bowling, will receive Rs 1 crore from the state government as an incentive,” CM Yadav stated during a public address in Bhopal. He also extended his congratulations to the entire Indian team for their “remarkable performance,” emphasizing that “Indian women are excelling in various fields, reflecting the country’s progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
Originally from Ghuwara in the Chhatarpur district of Bundelkhand, Gaud’s talent shone brightly when she was named Player of the Match against Pakistan in the group stage, taking an impressive 3/20. She concluded the tournament with a total of nine wickets from eight matches.
Her career boasts other notable achievements, including a six-wicket haul against England at Chester-le-Street, making her only the second Indian woman to achieve such a feat in ODIs. As online celebrations continue to highlight this historic victory, Gaud’s heartwarming recreation of Pandya’s iconic pose stands out as another cherished moment in India’s triumphant World Cup narrative.