A recent image from the Champions Trophy 2025 has sparked speculation that Indian opener Shubman Gill might switch to an MRF-sponsored bat. The photograph shows Gill holding a bat with an MRF sticker, raising questions about whether he will make an official switch from CEAT, which has been his long-time bat sponsor. However, until there is any formal confirmation, Gill remains a CEAT-sponsored player.
The MRF brand has a rich legacy in cricket bat sponsorship, with legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Brian Lara, AB de Villiers, and Gautam Gambhir having used MRF-branded bats at different points in their careers. The company is known for endorsing some of the biggest names in cricket, often associating with aggressive and stylish stroke players.
On the other hand, CEAT Tyres, one of India’s leading tyre manufacturers, has also made a strong presence in the cricketing world. It first ventured into bat sponsorships to compete with brands like MRF and later expanded its presence through partnerships with the IPL. CEAT signed Rohit Sharma as its first high-profile cricketer in 2016 and has since been associated with multiple Indian cricketers, including both male and female players.
Whether this sighting of Gill using an MRF bat is a temporary move or an indication of an official sponsorship shift remains to be seen.
