with IPL 2026 around the corner, the competitive spirit is already brewing – but so is the fun. In a light-hearted segment by Star Sports during the BCCI Naman Awards, Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Shubman Gill and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opener Abhishek Sharma gave fans a glimpse of their off-field chemistry, mixing humor with a competitive touch.
Shubman Gill’s joint drilling on Abhishek Sharma and SRH steals the show
The two cricketers, who are known to be close friends, were spotted participating in a fun competition hosted by him Sahiba Bali. What started as a casual joke quickly turned into a viral moment when Gill dropped a cheeky one-liner about SRH’s long wait for another IPL title.
“SRH son tab jeeti thi jab ghar kacche aur dil sacche hote the,” Gill joked.
The line, which referred to SRH’s lone IPL title in 2016, had everyone laughing, including Abhishek himself, who could only smile and shake his head. It quickly caught fire on social media, with fans loving the mix of humor and subtle competition.
Not only this, Gill also trolled Abhishek for walking out while attempting big shots. “Odd double khel,” he added.
https://titter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/2035028223881617867/video/1
It was classic Gill – calm, composed and delivered the punchline with perfect timing. While the comment was clearly made in jest, it also highlighted how competitive the IPL is, where even a friendly exchange hints at the intensity on the field.
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As IPL 2026 approaches, friendship meets competition
What makes this interaction even more special is the bond between Gill and Abhishek. The two grew up playing cricket together in Punjab, sharing dressing rooms and forming a friendship that goes back to their early days in the Under-16 circuit.
But when the IPL starts, friendships take a back seat.
Gill, now in charge of Gujarat Titans, and Abhishek, one of the key figures in SRH’s batting line-up, are often on opposite ends of tight contests. Their teams have been regular rivals in recent seasons, with both making strong playoff runs.
Gill in particular will have a lot to prove this season. Since taking over the captaincy duties, he has led Gujarat Titans closer to glory but is yet to lift the trophy. With a strong squad and renewed focus, IPL 2026 presents another opportunity to change that.
Abhishek, on the other hand, continues to grow as one of SRH’s most exciting batsmen. Known for his aggressive approach at the top, he will be looking to help his team end their title drought and perhaps provide an on-field response to Gill’s playful strike.
IPL 2026 officially begins on March 28, with reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) taking on SRH.
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