Viral cricket reel sparks outrage after India's T20 World Cup loss
A social media reel posted after India's defeat to South Africa in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup has triggered widespread backlash. The video, featuring radio jockey Princy Parikh and South African batter David Miller, drew criticism for its timing and tone. Fans questioned its relevance to cricket, while some called for stricter rules on influencers near players during matches.
The controversy began shortly after South Africa ended India's 12-match unbeaten streak with a 76-run victory. Parikh's reel showed Miller standing calmly beside her as she clapped and used the trending audio clip 'Waah Shampy Waah'. The video included the text 'I thought we were friends David?', which many viewers found awkward.
Reactions online were swift and divided. Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh responded with laughing emojis, while others labelled the video as 'cringe' and out of place. Some fans argued that influencers should be kept away from players during high-stakes matches to avoid distractions.
Despite the criticism, the clip went viral, sparking debates about the boundaries between fan engagement and professional sports environments.
The incident highlights growing concerns over social media interactions during major cricket events. While the reel gained attention, it also raised questions about appropriate conduct around players. No further statements have been made by the ICC or the teams involved.
