The cricket world was in splits when India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir appeared on The Great Indian Kapil Sharma Show with Rishabh Pant, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Abhishek Sharma. The episode, which aired on July 8, 2025, revealed some hilarious team dynamics that fans had never seen before.
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The Big Reveal: Who’s Team India’s ‘Jija’?
When Kapil Sharma playfully asked “Jija Kaun Hai Jo Badi Shikayatein Karta hai”, the answer surprised everyone. Rishabh Pant, with his trademark grin, revealed that it’s none other than Mohammed Shami who holds the unofficial title of Team India’s ‘Jija’.
But the real comedy gold came from Gautam Gambhir’s response. The usually serious coach quipped, “Tell him, Jija, you haven’t been home for two years!” – a reference to Shami’s injury layoff and recovery period.
Behind the Nickname: Why ‘Jija’?
The nickname stems from Shami’s habit of asking questions and occasional complaints within the team setup. His teammates started calling him ‘jija’ jokingly, turning what could be annoying behavior into affectionate team banter.
| Team India’s Fun Nicknames |
|---|
| Mohammed Shami – “Jija” (for his questioning nature) |
| Other players – Various “devrani” tags (as mentioned by Pant) |
| Team Dynamic – Family-like atmosphere with playful teasing |
Gambhir’s Lighter Side Surprises Fans
Known for his intense demeanor on the field, Gautam Gambhir showed a completely different side on the show. Fans were surprised to see “Gambhir, who is often known for his serious image, shows a lighter, more humorous side” during his appearance.
This rare glimpse into Team India’s dressing room dynamics reveals the strong camaraderie that exists beyond the cricket field. The playful banter highlights “the unique team spirit and chemistry that Team India shares”, giving fans insight into what makes this team tick.
The Show’s Cricket Special Impact
The Great Indian Kapil Show’s cricket special episode demonstrates how sports personalities can connect with audiences beyond their professional roles. The Netflix show has become a platform where athletes reveal their human side, making them more relatable to fans.
For cricket enthusiasts following Team India’s journey, these moments of levity show how humor and friendship contribute to team success. The episode also highlighted how coach-player relationships have evolved in modern cricket.
What This Means for Team India’s Chemistry
The comfortable banter between Gambhir and his players suggests a healthy team environment where respect doesn’t eliminate fun. This balance is crucial for maintaining team morale during high-pressure international cricket.
The revelation about Shami’s nickname also shows how the team maintains connection with injured players, keeping them involved in team culture even during recovery periods.
For more exclusive insights into Team India’s dynamics and cricket updates, explore our comprehensive cricket coverage at TechnoSports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Mohammed Shami called ‘Jija’ by Team India players?
A: Mohammed Shami earned the nickname ‘Jija’ due to his habit of asking questions and occasionally complaining within the team setup. His teammates started using this term affectionately, turning it into a playful team tradition.
Q: Will Mohammed Shami return to Team India soon?
A: While Shami has been recovering from injury for nearly two years, his inclusion in team conversations and nicknames suggests he remains an integral part of the squad. His return timeline depends on his fitness and recovery progress, which fans can follow through official BCCI updates.
