Former Team India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar hilariously advised Shubman Gill not to give Rohit Sharma popcorn when the players were on a rain-induced break during the first ODI against Australia in Perth. While Nayar was in awe of how they were bonding, he said ‘As long as woh use popcorn offer na kare. Jab tak woh akela kha raha hai I’m happy.’
Nayar’s cheeky comment likely arises from Rohit returning to fitness and not wanting to lose out on it again. The former Indian captain had stunned fans with his transformation in the recent CEAT Cricket Awards in Mumbai as he looked sharp in a suit, with the weight-gaining aspect visibly noticeable. Nevertheless, Rohit will no longer be captain of the ODI team, with Shubman Gill replacing him. Speaking to the reporters on Saturday, Gill had spoke highly of his predecessor about how good a bonding they share.
Speaking on Star Sports, Nayar observed that Gill is doing everything to make Rohit feel comfortable but said in the end:
“‘As long as woh use popcorn offer na kare. Jab tak woh akela kha raha hai I’m happy.” (As long as woh he is not offering the popcorn to Rohit. Till the time, he is eating alone, I’m happy.
From popcorn moments to mentorship! @IrfanPathan & #AbhishekNayar talk about @ImRo45 and @ShubmanGill’s bond and the young skipper’s learning spirit.
Plus, a cheeky message from Nayar for the new captain! #AUSvIND 1st ODI | LIVE NOW https://t.co/FkZ5L4CrRl pic.twitter.com/tlG5Be8frS
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 19, 2025
