ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Shubman Gill’s has been unable to recover from his illness in time for the second match against Afghanistan is a significant setback for India’s prospects in the World Cup. Although Wednesday’s game is expected to be relatively easy, the Afghanistan match could have served as an opportunity for the opener to find his rhythm, especially considering that the Indian team will face Pakistan’s formidable pace attack in Ahmedabad on October 14 in what is anticipated to be a highly competitive encounter.
Gill’s non-participation was strongly evident during the six-wicket victory against Australia, particularly when the top order faltered inexpensively. His calm and composed presence was dearly missed in that match. The 24-year-old opener has been in exceptional form, improving his performance since the start of 2022.
With Shubman Gill having amassed 1,917 runs at an impressive average of 66.10 in only 35 One-Day Internationals and currently being the top run-scorer this year with 1,230 runs at an average of 72.35, finding a suitable replacement for such a high-quality player is undoubtedly a challenging task. Team India can only remain hopeful and wish for their star batsman to recover and be in good health for the crucial match against Pakistan.
Three reasons why Shubman Gill is important for India
1. Indian conditions
While Shubman Gill has proven his ability to bat effectively overseas, he particularly thrives on home turf, boasting an impressive record in his brief international career. He has accumulated 704 runs in 12 ODIs at home, maintaining an average of 64 and a strike rate of 113. Furthermore, Gill’s batting style aligns well with Sharma’s expertise at the top of the innings on Indian pitches, where runs are typically abundant in most matches.
2. Versatility
Shubman Gill has shown remarkable versatility in his batting style, combining elegant shot-making with a solid defense. His agility and swift footwork enable him to establish a strong foundation early in his innings. Moreover, Gill possesses the valuable skill of adjusting his stance and approach based on whether he is facing a spinner or a fast bowler. His capacity to adapt to different conditions and pitches is a vital attribute for international cricketers. Gill’s consistent performances, both in India and abroad, underscore his adaptability in all formats of the game.
3. Temperament
Shubman Gill has consistently exhibited exceptional temperament with the bat across various formats, whether it’s the high-intensity Indian Premier League (IPL) or the demanding environment of Test cricket, especially during tours Down Under. His ability to remain composed and focus on what he can control enables him to perform well under pressure.
This quality could be a crucial asset in his game during the ODI World Cup. Gill is anticipated to partner with captain Rohit Sharma as the opening duo for Team India. Given that the tournament is being hosted in India, there will be immense pressure on the home team, who are regarded as one of the top contenders to win the competition.
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