In a delightful moment that's winning hearts online, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar was seen sharing a laugh, and a little jog, with an unusual new friend
In a delightful moment that’s winning hearts online, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar was seen sharing a laugh, and a little jog, with an unusual new friend at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Just before the IPL showdown between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals, the 75-year-old icon playfully interacted with a four-legged robot dog named Champak, and the video is now taking the internet by storm.
Champak, the IPL’s newest addition, isn’t your average gadget. Introduced earlier this season, the robot dog is already a star in its own right. Fans were asked to vote for a name, and “Champak” won in a landslide, likely thanks to its connection to the beloved character Champaklal Gada from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. The nostalgia was strong, and fans online didn’t miss the chance to share memes and enjoyed seeing the TV grandpa find a robotic namesake on the cricket field.
In the now-viral clip, Gavaskar’s playful spirit shines through. He’s seen running and laughing as he tries to keep up with Champak’s bouncy movements, creating a moment of pure joy that resonated with viewers of all ages. The IPL’s social media team shared the footage with the caption, “Looks like Sunny G found a new friend.”
Looks like Sunny G found a new friend 😊 #TATAIPL | #RCBvRRpic.twitter.com/VPX7CU2ZMb— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 24, 2025
But there’s more to Champak than cute interactions. Underneath its friendly exterior is a high-tech design similar to those used in top research labs. Champak can walk, trot, jump, turn, and even balance on its hind legs. It also has a camera on its head, which sends back live visuals to TV crews, offering fans fresh angles from ground level and near the dugouts, making the match viewing even more interesting.
Champak’s also proving useful around the pitch. From carrying the coin for the toss to delivering drinks and towels to umpires during breaks, it’s blending fun with function. It's a perfect example of how the IPL is blending innovation with keeping things light-hearted and fan-friendly.
In a world where cricket is constantly evolving, moments like Gavaskar’s cheerful run with Champak bring back the joy and magic of this sport, where tradition meets technology, and even a legendary cricketer can find a new friend in a robot. One thing’s for sure: Champak isn’t just a gadget; he’s already a crowd favorite.
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