Happy Friendship Day 5 best friend duos in cricket who share a special bond both on and off the field

Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL

The first Sunday of August is famously celebrated as 'Friendship Day', which is quite popular in India. It is a very widely celebrated tradition in the country where kids exchange friendship bands with each other on the special occasion. While people often find their best friends in schools or colleges, cricket is no far behind when it comes to producing some of the most amazing friendship duos.

We have often come across some brilliant bonds of friendship in this sport. No matter if they come from the same state or country or if they speak the same language or not, it is love for the game that unites them which can eventually result in unbreakable and special relationships for lifetime. Let us have a look at few of those duos whose friendship is absolutely adored by cricket fans.

1. Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers

The friendship of Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated ones in India. Despite playing for different countries, there was something that connected between the two of them when they started playing together for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2011. It's been 10 years since that time and the duo has never looked back since then.

From producing some breathtaking partnerships on the field while batting together to sharing some amazing memories inside the dressing room, Kohli-ABD is an emotion in itself. The sheer respect for each other's game and talent is something that makes their friendship quite unique and special.

2. Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues

Indian women's cricket has certainly been on the rise in last few years. While the performances on the field have been incredible, the popularity has something to do with off the field stuff as well. From their singing sessions on Instagram to their comradery while batting together, the friendship of Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues is certainly known to everyone.

The silent attitude of Smriti and the jolly nature of Jemimah just make their bond even more exciting. They are the face of Indian women's cricket going ahead and the fans would just hope that the duo's amazing bond stays intact for years to come.

3. Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul

Talking about friendships in modern era of cricket, the bond between Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul is undoubtedly one of the most beloved ones. The duo landed themselves in controversy when they appeared in 'Koffee With Karan' and just like best friends, they faced the punishment together standing side-by-side.

Both the players are often seen sharing some amazing moments in the dressing room while playing for India. However, the duo produced an exhibition of their friendship when they exchanged jerseys after an IPL 2018 game between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings. They can be described as Karan-Arjun of Indian cricket!

4. Adam Zampa and Marcus Stoinis

If there was any pair who could compete with friendship of Sholay's Jai and Viru in cricket, it would be the Australian duo of Adam Zampa and Marcus Stoinis. The bromance between the two of them is something that cricket fans across the globe really adore. Having played together for Australia and Melbourne Stars, the duo has often been spotted sharing some cheeky moments and hilarious banter with each other.

From giving a kiss on his cheeks to playing with his hair, Zampa has never shied away from showing his brotherly love to Stoinis. There is a very delightful connection between the two of them which is loved by players, commentators and fans across the globe.

5. MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina

When it comes to talking about best friends in cricket, one just can't miss out MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina. The duo has been playing together for more than 15 years now, for both India (formerly) and Chennai Super Kings. They were once considered as the most successful pairs in the sport while chasing, having won so many matches for their sides with their incredible partnerships.

The understanding between them was a sight to behold for all the fans whenever they played together and the fact that the duo announced their retirement from international cricket on the same day (August 15, 2020) just reflects the unique bond that they share with each other. There is a reason why they are called - Thala and Chinna Thala!