It is not often that a fast bowler calls one of India’s most talented young batters his “bunny”, but Mohammed Siraj says it with warmth rather than bullying. In his world, Shubman Gill is not a scalp he celebrates but a friend (now a captain) he cherishes, a teammate he has grown alongside, and someone whose journey inspires pride.
Shubman Gill-Mohammed Siraj bond
The two share a history that goes back well before the bright lights of international cricket. From grinding it out for India A to standing side by side on debut at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in December 2020, their stories have often run in parallel. Later, both rose to the top of ICC’s ODI charts almost at the same time, another moment that bound them together.
Speaking to RevSportz, Siraj opened up about the unique equation. “Shubman and I have been together for a long time. We have played India A. We have spent time off the field as well. We made our Test debuts together at the MCG, and also became ODI No. 1 at the same time. We have a lot of memories together,” he said.
At practice sessions, the two often bat and bowl to each other, taking jibes at each other. That is where Siraj teases him with the “bunny” tag. “We bat at the nets together and keep talking. I keep telling him that you’re my bunny. Our understanding is very easy and it reflects on the field. He understands what I want, what I don’t and vice versa.”
Gill’s elevation as captain of Gujarat Titans in the IPL and now as vice-captain of the Indian side for the Asia Cup has made Siraj reflect on how far his friend has come. “I am really proud of his growth as a captain, and now that he is the vice-captain for the Asia Cup as well, I would definitely want him to bring the trophy back. All the best to him and the team,” Siraj said.
