At the recent BCCI Naman Awards, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma was in the spotlight, not just for his remarkable achievements on the field, but also for his lighthearted and humorous moment off the field. During a candid interaction with Smriti Mandhana, Hardik Pandya, and Jemimah Rodrigues, Sharma was asked about a hobby he had picked up that his teammates often tease him about. What followed was a hilarious response that left everyone in splits.
When Sharma was prompted to share his hobby, he jokingly revealed, “They tease me about forgetting. It’s not a hobby, obviously. They tease me about forgetting my wallet, I forget my passport, which is absolutely not true. That happened a couple of decades back.” The playful response had the audience laughing, with Hardik Pandya adding to the fun by chiming in, “Wherever he is going, we make sure around his seat, he has not forgotten something.” This light-hearted banter among the Indian team members demonstrated the camaraderie and the close bonds they share, off the field, just as much as on it.
This funny moment at the Naman Awards was not just about humor, but also highlighted the relaxed, comfortable environment the players have built over the years. It’s common knowledge that the Indian cricket team, despite being one of the most competitive and successful teams in world cricket, maintains a close-knit atmosphere that thrives on friendship and mutual respect. Sharma’s candidness and his ability to laugh at himself is just one example of the positive team dynamics that have contributed to India’s success in international cricket.
The Naman Awards, which are held annually by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), recognize the stellar achievements of Indian cricketers across various formats. The 2025 edition of the awards ceremony saw the recognition of numerous players for their outstanding performances, including Sachin Tendulkar, who was honored with the prestigious Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony also provided a platform for cricketers to connect with their peers and reflect on their individual journeys.
For Rohit Sharma, the Naman Awards were not just a moment of personal recognition, but also a chance to share the camaraderie and the playful spirit that exists within the Indian cricket squad. His interaction with Smriti Mandhana, Pandya, and Rodrigues showcased a side of the team that fans rarely see – one that is filled with humor, friendship, and a deep sense of mutual respect.
While Rohit Sharma’s accomplishments on the field are widely recognized, it is his off-field relationships with his teammates that contribute to the Indian team’s strong morale and unity. These moments of levity, such as the hilarious “hobby” reveal at the Naman Awards, are a testament to the positive environment within the team, and the strong foundation of trust and friendship that plays a crucial role in their success.