The IPL 2026 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Friday, April 3, was more than just a battle for points; it was a momentous family affair.
For the first time in the tournament’s history, brothers Sarfaraz Khan and Musheer Khan found themselves on opposite sides of the pitch, leading to a heartwarming display of parental pride from their father, Naushad Khan.
Ahead of the high-stakes game at Chepauk, Sarfaraz Khan, who joined the “Yellow Army” this season after a stint with Delhi Capitals, presented his father with a custom CSK jersey. The kit was specially personalized with “Naushad” and his favorite number, 97, emblazoned on the back. While Naushad proudly donned the yellow colors, he made sure his loyalty wasn’t seen as one-sided.
A Father’s Balanced Loyalty
In a viral video shared by the Chennai Super Kings, Naushad Khan demonstrated the ultimate “middle ground.” After putting on the CSK jersey, he immediately reached for a Punjab Kings cap—the team represented by his younger son, Musheer. Musheer has been a staple for PBKS since his standout performance in the U19 World Cup last year.
Addressing the camera with a smile, the senior Khan explained his “mashup” attire with a touch of emotion.
“Ek ko naaraz nahi kar sakta (I cannot make one of them unhappy). Out of the two hands, I cannot say one is good and one is bad,” Naushad remarked.
From Mumbai Maidans to IPL Stardom
While the brothers represent different franchises in the IPL, their roots remain deeply intertwined in Mumbai’s domestic circuit. Both Sarfaraz and Musheer are pillars of the Mumbai state team, but the IPL auction dynamics have placed them in rival camps. This season marks a significant chapter for Sarfaraz, who was signed by CSK to strengthen their middle order, while Musheer continues to grow as a vital young asset for Punjab.
As the match commenced, the sight of Naushad in the stands—sporting the bright yellow of Chennai and the bold red of Punjab—served as a poignant reminder of the hard work and shared dreams that started years ago at the Azad Maidan.