The news of Shubman Gill’s illness, just two days before India’s much-anticipated World Cup opener against Australia, is one such moment. Gill, the young prodigy who has been India’s most successful ODI batter this year with over 1200 runs, has been diagnosed with dengue, casting a shadow of doubt over his participation.
One needs to dive into his recent performances to comprehend the magnitude of Gill’s absence. His bat has been a symphony of precision and power, and his record speaks volumes. In the recently concluded series against Australia, Gill amassed 168 runs, showcasing his prowess. However, his overall ODI record against the five-time champions underscores his value of 268 runs in 6 innings at an average of 44.67. This isn’t just good; it’s exceptional.
Former Australia captain Aaron Finch, a connoisseur of the game, recognizes the pivotal role Gill plays. He emphasizes that Gill’s presence instills a unique fear factor in the Australian team. Finch points out that Gill’s adaptability and versatility make him a nightmare for bowlers. His ability to dominate against spin, left-arm pacers, and right-arm pace elevates him to an elite league.
In a candid interview with Star Sports, Finch delves into the psychological aspect of the game. He believes that the depth of the squads sets this World Cup apart. While teams often have an ideal XI in mind, the realities of a long tournament include injuries and fatigue. For Australia, Gill’s presence was a game-changer, a psychological edge they now stand to lose.
“What’s going to stand out in this World Cup is the depth of these squads. Most teams have an idea of their ideal XI, but that doesn’t always go to plan. There are injuries and fatigue as it’s a long tournament. Still, India would be pretty comfortable. The difference will be the fear factor Shubman Gill puts into the Australian team,” Finch said while speaking to Star Sports.
Ishan Kishan, with his impressive ODI record, is a capable replacement. His stats as an opener speak of his ability to shine under pressure. However, he has showcased his versatility lately by excelling in the middle order. A notable 86 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup and a gritty 33 against Sri Lanka attest to his prowess.
‘If You Want To Win The World Cup, Then You Have To Beat…’, Gautam Gambhir Comes With An Interesting Analysis
Finch stated, “He is someone Australia at times really struggles to bowl to in any format because he has no weaknesses. He is somebody who can hit your best balls. He dominates spin, the left-arm pacer, and right-arm pace, so I think that will be the only difference. In the Powerplay, Australia will be a little more comfortable bowling to Ishan Kishan.”
Finch, offering insights like a seasoned captain, reveals Australia’s game plan. Facing Ishan Kishan in the Powerplay, they plan to deploy their top guns, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, to exploit his initial vulnerabilities. They intend to target his front foot, which has occasionally troubled the left-hander.
“Starc and Hazelwood. If I had to bowl to the left-hander, I would choose that selection. The outswing to Ishan is because I think he has a few technical faults he still hasn’t quite ironed out over the last while. His front foot closes up quite a bit, so if he can swing it early, they can get him. Once he gets in, he moves beautifully. But just those initial balls, though, he tends to get vulnerable,” added the former Australia captain.
As Gill is sidelined, Ishan Kishan faces a golden opportunity. While he has proven his mettle, the absence of Gill will inevitably alter the dynamics. Australia, aware of this shift, aims to seize the moment.
