Mohammed Siraj Opens Up About Special Bond with ‘His Bunny’ Shubman Gill: ‘We Have A Lot Of Memories Together’

Mohammed Siraj has opened up on his strong friendship with India Test captain Shubman Gill, which dates back a number of years. The quick bowler, who usually adds some comic relief to practices by referring to Gill as his bunny, explained how their relationship has developed both on and off the field.

Siraj Shines in England Series with Shubman Gill Leading

Siraj was at the centre of India fightback on the just concluded series against England, which ended in a draw. With Jasprit Bumrah left to rest to regulate workload, the 31-year-old headed the attack and ended as the highest wicket-taker including a nine-wicket haul at the Oval.

That performance was at a similar time to Gill as he became the Test captain. The series does not only mean wickets to Siraj, but also about enjoying the association he still shares with Gill as teammates and as friends.

Long Journey Together in Cricket

In reminiscing their careers, Siraj remembered how their cricketing careers have been intertwined. Their rise has been in tandem in many ways, having shared the stage in India A matches to their respective Test debuts at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“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 (ICC rankings) at the same time. We have a lot of memories together,” Siraj told RevSportz.

That common experience, says Siraj, has enabled them to create a bond that is not confined to the cricket field. The two players have witnessed each other develop as domestic prospects to becoming major players in international cricket and this makes their relationship unique.

IPL Bond and the ‘Bunny’ Banter

The pacer also talked about their relationships in the Indian premier league. Whereas Gill leads Gujarat Titans, Siraj is a regular in Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Both are on different sides but their friendship is still intact.

“He’s also the captain of Gujarat Titans. 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,” Siraj said.

Their running commentary in the nets, Siraj said, only makes them even closer. To him, the confidence and ease with Gill means an improvement in their performances any time they are playing together in the Indian team.

Proud of Gill’s Leadership Growth

Although Siraj is not in the T20I plans of India and will not be able to participate in the Asia Cup 2025, he is very impressed with the ascendancy of Gill as a leader. Gill was recently appointed the vice-captain of the tournament and Siraj believes in his teammate.

“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 concluded.

To Siraj, the association with Shubman Gill is more about runs and wickets, but a mutual journey and respect and memories that still hold them together as friends and cricketers.

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