The illustrious journey of Shubman Gill in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has not only caught the attention of fans worldwide but has also impressed former Indian all-rounder and 2011 World Cup Player of the Tournament Yuvraj Singh. Despite facing health challenges, Gill’s stellar performances have added a new dimension to India’s campaign.
Gill faced a setback at the beginning of the tournament, missing the first two matches due to dengue. In the semifinal, a hamstring cramp forced him to leave the field ‘retired hurt’ at 79. However, his determination and resilience have been noteworthy.
Having amassed over 1500 runs in 28 games in 2023 with an impressive average of nearly 66, Gill’s overall performance has been exceptional. In the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, he has contributed significantly, scoring 350 runs in eight innings with a commendable average of 50. Despite hitting four half-centuries, the young opener is eager to achieve a three-figure mark on the grand stage.
In an exclusive interview with Sports Tak ahead of the World Cup final between India and Australia, Yuvraj Singh praised Gill’s outstanding contributions. Singh acknowledged Gill’s health challenges but emphasized the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play in a World Cup final, encouraging him to give his all.
He said, “Shubman has had his health challenges, but despite that, his performances have been outstanding. I don’t know whether he had cramps or a hamstring niggle in the last game. But I feel he should play anyhow in the final. Just give it your all because a chance to play in the World Cup final doesn’t come every day. It’s probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Yuvraj Singh expressed optimism about the dynamic opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill providing India with another flying start. Recognizing India’s dominant form, Singh highlighted the team’s ability to score big, especially when the top order performs well. However, he raised a point of interest regarding how the middle order would handle early wickets, adding an intriguing aspect to the final.
He added, “Absolutely, India is playing dominant cricket, and teams are fearing to face them. When Rohit and Shubman get off to a flying start, we end up scoring 350-400 runs. The only situation I feel where India might feel the pressure is if they lose their top three early. The middle order has come in with a platform set so far, but how will they handle the situation of early wickets fall is something which will be interesting to see.”
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Singh lauded Rohit Sharma’s captaincy under pressure, citing it as a key factor in India’s success. He commended Sharma’s calmness and strategic decisions, exemplified in the semifinal against New Zealand, where he showcased astute captaincy by managing his bowlers effectively.
Yuvraj Singh said, “Rohit Sharma is a team player. I feel one of the main reasons why India has been so successful has been his captaincy under pressure. Even in the semifinal against New Zealand, he held back his strike bowlers and brought them into the attack only when the partnership began to look threatening. He has captained really well so far.”
With India unbeaten in the tournament, the final against Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad promises to be a riveting contest. Australia, eyeing their sixth World Cup title, faces a determined Indian side hoping to clinch the title for the third time.
