The India vs Sri Lanka warm-up match is currently underway, and Day 2 produced some encouraging performances from the Indian batters.
Devdutt Padikkal played an excellent knock and remained unbeaten on 142, while Ravindra Jadeja also scored a half-century. However, apart from the action on the field, there was another hilarious moment involving Jadeja and India head coach Gautam Gambhir that caught everyone’s attention.
A video of Jadeja and Gambhir sharing a funny moment during the warm-up game has gone viral on social media.
And the player at the centre of their banter was none other than Kuldeep Yadav.
Ravindra Jadeja Mimics Kuldeep Yadav’s Bowling Action
During a rain break in the warm-up match, Ravindra Jadeja was seen having a conversation with Gautam Gambhir.
Jadeja then decided to bring out his acting skills.
The Indian all-rounder walked behind Gambhir and started mimicking a bowling action. He first tried to copy the run-up before delivering the imaginary ball with a low-arm action.
The action Jadeja was trying to imitate was that of his Indian teammate Kuldeep Yadav.
It was a light-hearted attempt to copy the left-arm wrist-spinner’s unique bowling action, and Gambhir immediately understood what Jadeja was trying to do.
What followed made the moment even more entertaining.
Gautam Gambhir Joins Jadeja in the Fun
Gautam Gambhir is usually known for his intense and serious personality, whether he is sitting in the dugout or working with the players during training.
But this time, even Gambhir could not stop himself from joining the fun.
As Jadeja tried to imitate Kuldeep’s action, Gambhir appeared to make a small correction and showed him how the action should be performed.
Jadeja then tried it again.
Within moments, both Jadeja and Gambhir burst into laughter.
It was one of those rare dressing-room moments where fans got to see a completely different side of Gambhir.
The Indian head coach, who generally looks serious during matches, was visibly enjoying the banter with Jadeja.
Kuldeep Yadav Becomes the Target of Friendly Banter
There was nothing serious about the incident. It was simply friendly banter between members of the Indian camp.
Jadeja appeared to be having fun while copying Kuldeep Yadav’s bowling action, while Gambhir played along with him.
Kuldeep has one of the more recognisable bowling actions among Indian spinners. Being a left-arm wrist-spinner, his run-up, release and body movement are quite different from conventional finger spinners.
That perhaps gave Jadeja enough material to have some fun with his teammate’s action.
The video quickly attracted attention on social media, with fans enjoying the chemistry between Jadeja and Gambhir.
#1 All-rounder for a reason.😂
Ravindra Jadeja can bat, bowl, field, and apparently, crack Gautam Gambhir too. 😆
Watch Day 3 of SLC XI vs #TeamIndia tomorrow, 10 AM onwards, LIVE on Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #SonyLIV pic.twitter.com/TWbJzVPEed
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) August 8, 2026
A Relaxed Team India Dressing Room Ahead of Sri Lanka Tests
More than the mimicry itself, the video also gives fans a small glimpse of the atmosphere inside the Indian camp ahead of an important Test series.
India have plenty to think about before the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, but moments like these show that the players and coaching staff are also keeping the environment relaxed.
That becomes even more important on a long Test tour.
Jadeja is one of the most experienced members of this Indian side, while Kuldeep could have a major role to play once the actual Test series begins.
Sri Lankan conditions are expected to bring spinners into the game, making the Jadeja-Kuldeep combination an important part of India’s plans.
For now, though, Kuldeep found himself at the receiving end of some friendly banter from his senior teammate.
Jadeja and Padikkal Impress With the Bat on Day 2
The funny incident was not the only reason Ravindra Jadeja was in the spotlight on Day 2.
The veteran all-rounder also spent valuable time in the middle and scored a half-century.
Devdutt Padikkal was the standout performer with the bat, remaining unbeaten on 142 as India reached 357/8 after 90 overs, just six runs behind Sri Lanka Cricket XI’s 363/8.
For Padikkal, the innings was particularly important ahead of the Test series as he looks to strengthen his case for a place in India’s batting order.
Jadeja’s runs were also a positive sign for India. His ability to contribute lower down the order could once again be crucial in Sri Lankan conditions.
Ravindra Jadeja-Kuldeep Yadav Partnership Could Be Crucial for India
While Ravindra Jadeja mimicking Kuldeep Yadav provided one of the funniest moments of the warm-up match, both spinners could soon have a much more serious job to do.
Sri Lankan pitches traditionally provide assistance to spin as Test matches progress.
Jadeja brings control, accuracy and experience, while Kuldeep offers something completely different with his left-arm wrist-spin.
If India decide to play both of them together, the pair could be central to India’s bowling plans in the upcoming Test series.
But before the serious business begins, Jadeja and Gambhir certainly enjoyed themselves at Kuldeep’s expense.
And judging by their reaction in the viral video, it was one piece of friendly banter that both thoroughly enjoyed.
