with ipl 2026 Around the corner, the competitive spirit is already brewing – but so is the fun. In a light-hearted segment on 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 touch of rivalry.
Shubman Gill’s playful quip on Abhishek Sharma and SRH steals the show
The two cricketers, who are considered close friends, were seen taking part in a fun challenge 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 won last time when houses were raw and hearts were true,” Gill quipped.
The line referencing SRH’s only IPL title win in 2016 made everyone laugh – including Abhishek himself, who could only smile and shake his head at the jab. The moment quickly took social media by storm, with fans loving the mix of humor and subtle rivalry.
Not only this, Gill also trolled Abhishek when he got out while attempting a big shot. “single double game,” He added.
https://titter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/2035028223881617867/video/1
This was classic Gill – calm, patient and delivering punchlines with perfect timing. And while the comment was clearly made in jest, it also highlighted how competitive the IPL has become, where even friendly exchanges give a hint of the intensity on the field.
Also read: Kavya Maran’s injury blow to SRH – How many matches will Pat Cummins miss in IPL 2026?
As IPL 2026 approaches, friendship meets rivalry
The relationship between Gill and Abhishek makes this conversation even more special. The two grew up playing cricket together in Punjab, sharing dressing rooms and building a friendship that dates back to their early days in the Under-16 circuit.
But when IPL starts, friendships are left behind.
Gill, who now leads Gujarat Titans, and Abhishek, who is a key figure in SRH’s batting lineup, have often found themselves on opposite sides of intense contests. Their teams have been regular competitors in recent seasons, with both making strong playoff runs.
Gill in particular will have a lot to prove this season. Since assuming the responsibility of captaincy, he has taken Gujarat Titans closer to glory, but has not been able to lift the trophy yet. With a stronger squad and a new focus, IPL 2026 presents another opportunity to change this.
Abhishek, on the other hand, is emerging as one of the most exciting batsmen for SRH. Known for his aggressive approach at the top, he will be looking to help his team break the title drought – and perhaps respond to Gill’s playful strikes on the field.
IPL 2026 will officially begin on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) facing off against SRH.
Also read: IPL – Complete List of All SRH Captains Till Date ft Ishan Kishan