Shubman Gill’s blistering century against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday has reignited the debate over his omission from India’s T20 World Cup squad.
Gill, who has been in scintillating form this IPL season, slammed his fourth ton in the league, powering Gujarat Titans to a comfortable 35-run win over the defending champions. His 55-ball 104 was a testament to his class and ability to dominate even the best bowling attacks.
Former India coach Ravi Shastri, who was on commentary duty during the match, expressed his admiration for Gill and lamented his exclusion from the World Cup squad. “He (Gill) would be hurting. He should be hurting. He should look at it positively and try to get better,” Shastri said.
Shastri pointed out that Gill’s talent is undeniable, but the depth of India’s batting lineup is such that he has not been able to secure a place in the 15-man squad. “A player of his calibre would walk into any side, but such is the talent in India that he doesn’t get a place,” Shastri added.
Despite missing out on a place in the World Cup squad, Gill will still be traveling with Team India as a reserve alongside Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed. This indicates that the selectors still value his abilities and believe he has a future with the national team.
Gill’s omission from the World Cup squad has raised questions about the selection criteria and whether the selectors have made the right decision. Some experts believe that Gill’s consistent performances in the IPL should have earned him a place in the squad, while others argue that the selectors have opted for a more experienced lineup.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to include Gill in the World Cup squad is a matter of opinion. However, there is no doubt that he is a talented batsman with the potential to become one of the best in the world. His performances in the IPL this season have only reinforced that belief.