The anticipation is mounting; the countdown to India’s opening match in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 against Australia on October 8th is underway. However, an unexpected twist has left cricket enthusiasts on edge the health of India’s promising opener, Shubman Gill.
Due to health concerns, Gill’s participation in this crucial encounter hangs in the balance. Dengue has cast its shadow, with the young cricketer battling a high fever since his arrival in Chennai. As the cricketing world holds its breath, the final decision rests with the medical team, contingent upon Gill’s recovery progress.
Amid the uncertainty, India’s coach, Rahul Dravid, offers hope with an update. While Gill’s status for the Australia clash remains unconfirmed, it has not been ruled out. Dravid shares that Gill is displaying signs of improvement and is under the watchful eye of the medical team. However, the upcoming matches against Afghanistan on October 11th and Pakistan on October 14th could also be in jeopardy if Gill’s recovery takes longer than expected.
The potential absence of Gill poses a notable challenge for the Indian team. His outstanding performances this season have been instrumental in the team’s success. In ODIs this year, Gill accumulated an impressive 1,230 runs from 20 matches, boasting an average of 72.35. His absence would undoubtedly leave a void in the batting lineup.
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, speaking to Star Sports, acknowledges Gill’s eagerness to return to the field. However, he offers a word of caution. Bangar emphasizes the need to exercise prudence and avoid rushing the young player back into the lineup, considering the tournament’s extended duration.
“Even if he is half fit, he would want to go out and play and take guard against Australia, against whom he has enjoyed playing. He is young, he wants to make a mark in the tournament and doesn’t want to miss any of those games,” said Sanjay Bangar
Bangar highlights the challenging conditions in Chennai, characterized by high humidity that can be physically draining. He suggests that even if Gill is partially fit, he may be eager to take on Australia, a team he has had success against. However, Bangar underscores the importance of not hurrying Gill’s return. Preserving him for the remainder of the tournament should take precedence.
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“We all have been in that sort of phase where he is. It augurs well for the Indian team that they still think he can play, but let’s wait and watch what happens. I don’t want them to rush him back because it’s a long tournament. Chennai has humidity, and it’s pretty sapping on the body. Even if he has to miss a game, that’s fine. Don’t rush him back. Preserve him for the rest of the tournament,” he concluded.
Shubman Gill’s recent form has been exceptional, and India would prefer to have him miss a few initial matches rather than risk losing him for the entire tournament. As the cricketing world watches and waits, the hope is that Gill’s health improves swiftly, ensuring his presence when India faces Pakistan on October 14th in Ahmedabad.
