Shubman Gill Addresses Rivalry Rumors with Hardik Pandya on Social Media

Clarifying Friendship Amidst Speculations

The social media landscape was buzzing with rumors regarding a potential rivalry between Shubman Gill, the newly appointed Test captain of India, and Hardik Pandya. These speculations gained traction after Gill notably did not shake hands with Pandya following his toss win during the IPL 2025 eliminator held in Chandigarh. Pandya's somewhat aggressive celebration after taking Gill's wicket further fueled these rumors. However, Gill has put these rumors to rest by sharing a post on his Instagram, emphasizing the strength of his friendship with Pandya and advising fans not to take everything they see online at face value.

Instagram Post Highlights Their Bond

“Nothing but love (Don’t believe everything you see on the internet) @hardikpandya93.” This was Gill's message on his Instagram, reinforcing their camaraderie.

Mumbai Indians Advance in IPL 2025

In other news, the Mumbai Indians have secured their spot in the second qualifier, where they will compete against the Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Mumbai triumphed over Gujarat by 20 runs in a thrilling match. Rohit Sharma's impressive 81 runs contributed to Mumbai's formidable total of 228 runs, which proved too much for the Gujarat batsmen. Shubman Gill was dismissed early, failing to make a significant impact with the bat. Meanwhile, Sai Sudarshan showed determination in his batting efforts but ultimately had to return to the pavilion.

Washington Sundar was also making strides towards a half-century when Mumbai desperately needed a breakthrough. Pandya turned to his star bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, who delivered with a crucial yorker that bowled Sundar, providing Mumbai with the much-needed wicket. The winner of this second qualifier will face the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2025 finals. If Mumbai clinches the title this season, it will mark their sixth championship victory.