Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib has opened up about his close friendship with India all-rounder Axar Patel, revealing that their relationship extends well beyond their battles on the cricket field. The two players have developed a strong bond through their experiences in franchise cricket, and Naib says they remain in regular contact despite representing different countries.

Naib spoke about his relationship with Axar ahead of the second T20I of the three-match Friendship Cup series between India and Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. All three matches of the series are being played at the same venue, bringing the two international sides together in a closely contested T20I assignment.

While international cricket often creates fierce competition between players, franchise cricket has given cricketers from different nations an opportunity to build friendships away from the spotlight. Naib and Axar appear to be a strong example of that connection.

ALSO READ: Mohit Sharma Urges Fans Not to Judge Sanju Samson Too Quickly After 57

Speaking on Afghanistan Cricket’s Instagram account, Naib described Axar as a close friend and praised his personality. “I get along really well with Axar (Axar Patel) bhai. We always talk, whether I’m at home or wherever I am. Whenever I call him, he picks up on the first ring, and he always replies to my messages.”

Naib has also developed friendly relationships with several other Indian cricketers, including former India captain Virat Kohli. However, he made it clear that his bond with Axar holds a special place. Their friendship has developed through shared experiences in franchise cricket, particularly the Indian Premier League.

Playing alongside or against international stars in a less formal environment allows players to interact regularly, understand each other personally, and build relationships that often continue after a tournament ends. That connection adds an interesting human element to the India-Afghanistan rivalry. Although Naib and Axar compete fiercely whenever their teams meet, their relationship away from the field remains warm and supportive.

ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer Drops Major Hint On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Chance In 3rd T20I

The Friendship Cup has provided another opportunity for both players to share the same stage. With all three T20Is being played in Delhi, Naib and Axar are once again on opposite sides professionally while maintaining the friendship they have built away from international cricket.

Their story underlines one of the unique aspects of modern cricket: competition may separate players on match day, but shared experiences can create friendships that extend far beyond the boundary ropes.