IPL in UAE: Every dog has its day with IPL players

Canine companions rate highly among the Indian Premier League players, and many of them took time out during their preparations for the competition in the UAE on International Dog Day to pay tribute to man's best friend. Shreyas Gopal of Rajasthan Royals described them as 'my favourite people'.

Not sure what Iyer's teammate Jofra Archer would make of him rating dogs as favourites, but he is clearly a fan of the pooches too, so I'm sure he understands.

Royal Challengers Bangalore stars also hailed their furry pals as skipper Virat Kohli and South African AB De Villiers were snapped with their four-legged friends.

RCB's Yuzvendra Chahal and Umesh Yadav also got a canine cuddle, to make up for the lack of human contact while they are in isolation in Dubai.

Mumbai Indians' Surya Kumar Yadav showed he has a perfect pet.

Mumbai's Hardik Pandya is well-known as a dog lover.

The same goes for Hardik's brother and MI teammate Krunal Pandya.

King XI Punjab's James Neesham is used to getting slobbered on.

But last mention has to go to Punjab star KL Rahul's best pal Simba, arguably India's most famous furry friend. Happy International Dog Day to all.