Gulbadin Naib Reveals Close Friendship With Axar Patel Ahead of India–Afghanistan T20I

Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadin Naib has shared details of his close personal bond with Indian left-arm spinner Axar Patel, describing a relationship that reaches well beyond cricket. The comments came ahead of the second T20I of the ongoing Friendship Cup between Afghanistan and India.

The three-match T20I Friendship Cup began on September 13, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in New Delhi, with all three fixtures scheduled at the same venue. Naib and Patel are both part of their respective national squads. Naib praised Patel as an exceptional person and highlighted the genuine warmth between them.

“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 said on Afghanistan Cricket’s Instagram.

How did Naib and Axar Patel become close friends?

Naib and Patel’s friendship developed through shared opportunities in franchise cricket, including the Indian Premier League. Such tournaments often give players from different countries time to connect away from the demands of international cricket, and the pair have clearly built on that shared experience.

Naib has also met and remains on friendly terms with several other Indian cricketers, including Virat Kohli. However, he said his relationship with Patel stands apart because of their regular communication, regardless of their locations or schedules.

What does Naib’s friendship with Patel say about the Friendship Cup?

The series reflects the wider spirit of cricket diplomacy between Afghanistan and India, while Naib’s openness about his relationship with Patel adds a personal dimension to that connection. Franchise cricket has helped players from both countries forge friendships that continue long after a tournament concludes.

Naib and Patel’s consistent communication across distances and time zones shows how relationships formed off the field can extend well beyond the competition itself. With all three Friendship Cup matches set to take place at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium, the players will meet on one stage where sporting rivalry and mutual respect coexist.

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