Amidst fierce cricketing action during the 2nd Test between India and West Indies in Delhi, it was a lighthearted moment involving lip balm that stole the internet’s heart. KL Rahul, ever the meticulous professional, was seen applying lip balm on the field—only for captain Shubman Gill to jokingly mimic him, sparking a viral exchange that showcased the team’s camaraderie .
But don’t let the playful vibe fool you. Gill, in just his second Test as India’s skipper, followed up the banter with serious business—smashing a blistering century, his fifth as captain, and reinforcing why he’s the future of Indian cricket.
Shubman Gill: Leading with Bat and Banter
At just 25, Shubman Gill has already carved a niche as one of India’s most composed and stylish batters. His latest century—a mix of elegant drives and calculated aggression—wasn’t just about runs; it was a statement of leadership under pressure.
“He’s calm, he’s focused, and he leads by example,” said former India opener Virender Sehwag in a post-lunch commentary segment. “Even when he’s joking with KL, you can see the confidence in his eyes.”
The Viral Lip Balm Moment: More Than Just Fun
The now-famous clip shows KL Rahul, stationed at slip, casually applying lip balm on a dry Delhi afternoon. Gill, at the non-striker’s end, notices it and playfully gestures as if reaching for his own. Rahul, without missing a beat, tosses an imaginary tube his way—prompting laughter from nearby fielders.
In a high-stakes Test match, such moments humanize the players and remind fans that even elite athletes share everyday quirks. The video quickly trended on X (formerly Twitter), with fans dubbing it “#LipBalmDiplomacy.”
Gill’s Captaincy Stats: A Promising Start
Since taking over the Test reins, Gill has delivered consistently with the bat. Here’s a snapshot of his captaincy record so far:
| Matches as Captain | Runs | Centuries | Win/Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 247 | 2 | 1W / 0L |
| Career as Captain (All Formats) | 892 | 5 | 7W / 2L |
His ability to blend youthful energy with tactical maturity is winning praise across the cricketing world.
KL Rahul’s Role: The Steady Hand Behind the Scenes
While Gill shines as captain, KL Rahul continues to be a pillar of stability—both with the gloves and in the dressing room. His experience, especially in mentoring younger players, adds depth to India’s leadership core.
As [INTERNAL_LINK:Indian Cricket Team] transitions into a new era, the Gill-Rahul dynamic—equal parts friendship, respect, and on-field synergy—could be its secret weapon.
What’s Next?
With India dominating the Delhi Test and the series nearly sealed, all eyes will be on how Gill manages team rotation, player development, and pressure in upcoming overseas tours. But for now, fans are happy to relive that perfect blend of cricketing excellence and locker-room levity.