During a rain interruption in the first One-Day International at Perth, former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar couldn’t hide his surprise—and a touch of humorous frustration—in the commentary box. He had just spotted Indian captain Rohit Sharma casually enjoying popcorn alongside Shubman Gill.
“Hey, don’t give him popcorn!” Nayar exclaimed on air, a quip that quickly went viral.
Image: Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill enjoying popcorn during the rain break.
This lighthearted moment was a stark contrast to Nayar’s pre-match comments. He had previously spoken at length about Sharma’s impressive 11-kilogram weight loss and the rigorous fitness regimen undertaken with the 2027 World Cup firmly in mind.
“There’s been a lot of buzz about his weight loss,” Nayar shared before the game. “Initially, the focus was entirely on becoming fitter and leaner. I’ve mentioned it before: there was a very public image of him returning from a UK holiday, and he was determined to change that perception. His ultimate goal? To be in peak physical condition for the 2027 World Cup – fitter, stronger, lighter, and more agile. While his natural talent has always been undeniable, this enhanced fitness has only amplified his skills, allowing him to move quicker and display his best-ever agility.”
Nayar added, “He’s enthusiastic and driven. He’s aware of the discussions and pressure regarding his participation in the 2027 World Cup. His first response was addressing his weight. We’re all hoping his next big statement will come from his bat, with a flood of runs.”
Unfortunately for Sharma, his performance in the match didn’t quite live up to the pre-game hype. He managed only eight runs from 14 balls before being dismissed by Josh Hazlewood.
The Indian team was already in a precarious position, limping at 52 for four after 16.4 overs, when the rain intervened yet again, causing another break in play.