Under the lights of the iconic Wankhede Stadium, a light-hearted yet competitive moment between Rohit Sharma and Shardul Thakur stole the spotlight during a late-night training session ahead of Indian Premier League 2026.
In a video shared by Mumbai Indians on social media, Rohit was seen getting into rhythm during net practice. Facing Shardul, the experienced batter attempted a lofted shot straight down the ground towards long-on. The connection was decently timed well but not quite off the middle and the ball didn’t seem to have enough to clear the boundary.
What followed made the moment special. Rohit, with a cheeky smile, instantly said, “Catch it, in the stands,” playfully acknowledging that the shot was a catch but after a power six in the stands. Shardul, equally amused, responded with a laugh on the banter.
The clip quickly caught attention online, with fans enjoying the camaraderie between the two Indian stars. Their bond goes beyond the IPL, as both Rohit and Shardul have spent years playing domestic cricket in Mumbai, building a strong understanding and friendship over time. Moments like these reflect not just their competitive spirit but also the comfort and mutual respect they share.
Adding to the charm is Rohit’s nickname “Shana,” often used in Mumbai cricket circles, which perfectly captures his playful personality on and off the field.
As Mumbai Indians gear up for the new season, such glimpses from training sessions offer fans a refreshing look at the human side of the game. While performances on match days matter the most, it’s these candid, unscripted interactions that truly deepen the connection between players and supporters.
Shaana and Lord’s banter is already here 😂 pic.twitter.com/8SZHCH0hit
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 17, 2026