Shubman Gill’s much-anticipated return to the Indian cricket team is creating quite a buzz as the ODI World Cup 2023 progresses. Gill, one of India’s promising young talents, missed the first two games of the tournament due to a bout of dengue fever. However, there is growing optimism that he will be back in the playing XI for India’s upcoming high-stakes clash against arch-rivals Pakistan.
The 24-year-old opener was admitted to a Chennai hospital after India’s opening game in the tournament, which they won convincingly against Australia. After receiving medical treatment, Gill was discharged and then flew to Ahmedabad, the venue for India’s match against Pakistan. On Thursday, October 12, he participated in training, sparking hope among fans that he might make a comeback in the marquee game.
The Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad is considered Gill’s happy hunting ground. This is the place where he made his international debut in Test cricket and played a pivotal role in helping India secure a Test series victory against England earlier in 2021.
India’s former wicketkeeper-batter and BCCI chief selector, MSK Prasad, is confident that Gill will return to the playing XI for the Pakistan game. Speaking to Hindustan Times, Prasad emphasized that Gill’s practice in the nets has shown that he has recovered well and faster than expected from his illness.
“I think we can put an end to all kinds of speculations. Shubman Gill will definitely play this game (vs Pakistan). He’s too good a player to miss out. He had just a fever. He has recovered. It was not threatening at all that we would even think about replacements. It’s all rumors that are coming out (about the seriousness of the illness) in whatever form that you are hearing,” Prasad stated.
Prasad also highlighted the precautionary measures taken regarding Gill’s illness, stating that Gill couldn’t play the second game as a matter of precaution. He recovered well during his time in Chennai and was discharged. The fact that Gill participated in training sessions and played for an hour was seen as a sign of his full recovery.
According to Prasad, the match against Pakistan is of great importance, and if Gill is fit, which Prasad believes he is, he should be in India’s playing XI for the game.
Shubman Gill has been in sublime form in 2023. Across formats, he has already scored seven centuries, five of which came in the 50-over format. During India’s victorious run in the Asia Cup, Gill played a memorable inning, scoring 121 against Bangladesh, and ended as the leading run-scorer with 302 runs. His consistent performances continued as he was named the Player of the Series in India’s 2-1 home ODI series win over Australia in late September, including a fine knock of 104.
The anticipation around Gill’s return is immense, as his remarkable talent and consistent performances have established him as a vital asset for the Indian cricket team. His presence at the top of the order provides stability and firepower to the team, making his return a significant boost for India’s ODI World Cup campaign.
As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the India-Pakistan clash, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill, whose potential return could further spice up the highly anticipated showdown. Cricket fans around the globe hope to see Gill back in action, contributing with his bat, and showcasing his immense talent on the grand stage of the ODI World Cup.
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By- Sahiba Suri