For years now, Rohit Sharma’s fitness has been the butt of jokes and the centre of serious cricketing concerns. He’s never quite looked like the lean, mean athlete type, and despite his immense talent, critics have always kept a sharp eye on his waistline. But just when fans thought things were turning around, a cheeky popcorn-sharing moment with Shubman Gill during the Australia vs India 1st ODI match has reignited the chatter with plenty of raised eyebrows to go around.

Rain, Popcorn, and Captain Vibes

Picture this: rain pours down in Perth, and the players take shelter indoors during the Australia vs India 1st ODI match. Cameras cut to the Indian dressing room, and there’s a wholesome moment: Gill, the newly-appointed ODI skipper, is seen sharing popcorn with Rohit Sharma. They’re laughing, chatting, and the mood is all calm and cosy. For fans, it was a glimpse of harmony. The old guard and the new captain bonding during a tricky weather break.

Ye kya banda hai yaar😭😭❤️❤️munching popcorn and khi khi with his rohit bhai pic.twitter.com/Fb34sKYKqR

— SA♡❀ (@criclove77) October 19, 2025

It was also Gill’s captaincy debut in ODIs. Despite a short stay at the crease, he looked composed. Sharing snacks with the former captain? Many saw it as a thoughtful, almost symbolic act. After all, this is the same Rohit who once backed Gill when others were in line. Now, the youngster seems to be repaying that faith with small but meaningful gestures.

Rohit Sharma’s Fitness：Not Everyone’s Laughing

But as always, what looks sweet to some is worrying to others. Former Indian coach and Rohit’s long-time confidant, Abhishek Nayar, certainly wasn’t impressed. The moment he saw Rohit munching away, he snapped during live commentary:

“Arey bhai usse popcorn mat de” (Don’t let him eat popcorn), he barked at Gill.

Nayar’s frustration is understandable. He’s been right beside Rohit during his intense transformation. Rohit Sharma’s fitness journey wasn’t just a quick fix; he reportedly dropped 11 kilograms, worked through tough gym sessions, and reshaped his body with a singular aim: to make it to the 2027 World Cup. Nayar described the effort before the match:

“The initial parts were obviously about getting fitter, getting leaner… the outlook was obviously the 2027 World Cup — to be fitter, stronger, lighter, and more agile.”

Which is why, when popcorn appeared in Rohit’s hands mid-match, Nayar’s hopes probably felt like they were going up in buttery smoke. And then there’s the issue of Rohit Sharma’s diet plan, something fans assume is now far stricter than it once was. Popcorn, while not exactly deep-fried samosas, isn’t typically in the “match day fuel” section of a professional athlete’s plan. Some critics even accused Gill of being too casual, possibly jeopardising his former captain’s discipline.

How’s The Match?

When we focus on Rohit Sharma’s diet plan, do not forget the match. As for the cricket itself…well, it was a bit of a mixed bag. The Australia vs India 1st ODI match had all the ingredients for drama, even before the rain played spoilsport. Rohit, back in blue for the first time in months, didn’t quite shine with the bat, managing just 8 off 14 balls before Hazlewood sent him packing. Not the comeback statement fans were hoping for.

Related Article：Australia vs India 1st ODI Highlights：Gill’s Captaincy Debut Ends in Rain and Regret

Gill, on his captaincy debut, also had a short stay at the crease. Just 10 runs to his name before Nathan Ellis bowled him out. Not ideal, but as anyone will tell you, being a skipper isn’t just about runs; it’s about presence, composure, and, apparently, snack diplomacy. Still, fans will be hoping for stronger performances in the next two matches, especially since this series is part of India’s prep for the big 2027 stage. With Australia coming off their sixth World Cup win, the hunger to settle scores is very real.

Final Words

At the end of the day, the popcorn incident was both heartwarming and mildly concerning. On one side, you have Gill showing respect and inclusion in a team navigating a leadership change. On the other, you’ve got serious questions being asked about Rohit Sharma’s diet plan and whether it aligns with the discipline required at this level.

“Arey bhai usse popcorn mat de”😂

Abhishek Nayar in Commentary box after seeing Rohit Sharma Eating Popcorn😃 pic.twitter.com/M4d44liTkI

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) October 19, 2025

But perhaps the truth lies somewhere in between. Maybe the popcorn wasn’t just a snack…maybe it was a sign of camaraderie, mutual respect, and the kind of team culture that wins big matches. Still, next time the cameras pan to the dressing room during a break in play, maybe let’s hope Rohit’s holding a protein bar instead, or at least low-sodium popcorn.