Trust me: Sharma backs Gill amid lean patch ahead of World Cup
Trust me: Sharma backs Gill amid lean patch ahead of World Cup
Abhishek Sharma defends Shubman Gill amid a lean run, pledging faith in his friend to spark big scores at the T20 World Cup.
Shubman Gill's place in India's T20I XI has come under the scanner after a lean run, with India leading the series 2-1 against South Africa. Gill's numbers in the five-match T20I series show 291 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 137.3, with just four sixes. In the third T20I, he produced a run-a-ball 28 in a modest chase of 118, a performance that did little to quell the debate over his form.
Growing up together since they were 12, Abhishek Sharma offered a firm defense of his close friend: “trust me, these two guys are going to win matches in the World Cup and in this series as well,” he said, highlighting Gill's ability to adapt to different conditions and deliver when it matters most. He added that his long-standing partnership gives him confidence in Gill's shot-making and temperament under pressure.
The conversation around Gill comes amid growing scrutiny of his role at the top, especially with Sanju Samson excluded despite impressive form. India sits 2-1 ahead in the series, and Sharma's remarks seek to remind fans and teammates that Leeds-like runs can return quickly with the right support and confidence.
Separately, former India coach Sanjay Bangar urged Gill to prioritise stability and clean cricketing shots at the top, rather than chasing big hits. Bangar believes Gill's primary job is to see off the new ball, absorb early pressure, and lay the platform for the power hitters to do what they do best. This advice aligns with a broader plan to balance aggression with consistency as India prepares for the T20 World Cup.
As the World Cup looms, Sharma's faith and Bangar's pragmatic approach reflect a common cricketing theme: talent can thrive again when backed by trust, process, and a clear role in the batting order. If Gill can convert potential into steady starts and convert those into match-winning knocks, India will have a dependable gun to call upon when the games get tight.
Cover image source: Abhishek not worried about Gill and Suryakumar’s dip in form 🔗
