'If You Are Good Friends...': Rishabh Pant Reflects On His Special Bond With Shubman Gill Ahead Of ENG Vs IND Test Series; Video

As India prepares for the upcoming Test series against England, wicketkeeper and vice-captain Rishabh Pant has spoken warmly about his strong friendship with new Test captain Shubman Gill.

Pant shared that he and Gill share a great understanding, both on and off the field. He said their relationship is very comfortable and friendly, which helps their teamwork during matches. According to Pant, being good friends off the field makes communication easier and creates a better connection when playing together.

“I think me and Shubman have really good camaraderie, off the field especially. If you are good friends off the field, it eventually comes on the field. We gel really well together. We keep on having conversations, and the kind of comfort zone we have with each other, I think that is really going to be special for us,” said Pant.

With Rohit Sharma retiring from Test cricket, 25-year-old Shubman Gill has taken over as captain. Pant, who brings experience and energy, continues as the team’s vice-captain.

Sachin Tendulkar Intervenes To Preserve Pataudi Legacy In India–England Test Series: Reports

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar has reportedly played a key role in ensuring that the Pataudi legacy remains part of the India–England Test series, even after the recent decision to rename the trophy as the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy.

The Pataudi Trophy, introduced in 2007, was named in honour of Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, one of India’s most respected Test captains, and his father Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi, who uniquely represented both England and India in Test cricket. The trophy symbolized a rich historical link between the two cricketing nations.

Recently, the BCCI and ECB decided to rename the trophy to honour Tendulkar and James Anderson, England’s highest wicket-taker in Tests. While the new name celebrates modern greats, many fans and experts felt it overlooked the historical significance of the Pataudi name.

Understanding the importance of tradition, Tendulkar personally reached out to senior officials in both boards and also had discussions with Jay Shah, the secretary of the BCCI and ICC chairman.

Tendulkar’s gesture has been widely praised as an act of humility and reverence for the game's history. It also highlights the importance of respecting cricket’s rich heritage even as the sport continues to evolve with new stars and achievements.