Shubman Gill, who is currently in excellent form, aims to secure a spot on India’s squad for the upcoming ODI Cricket World Cup later this year. He recently showcased his newfound confidence with a remarkable double century in the first ODI of the ongoing three-match series against New Zealand.
The powerful batter scored 208 runs off 149 balls, helping India reach 349 for 8 in 50 overs in Hyderabad. New Zealand, who were chasing 350 runs, were dismissed for 337 in 49.2 overs, thanks to a four-wicket performance by Mohammed Siraj, leading India to a 12-run victory. India then secured a series-clinching victory with an eight-wicket win in the second ODI, in which New Zealand were all out for 108 in 34.3 overs.
In the third ODI, the 23-year-old Gill displayed his full range of batting skills by decimating Lockie Ferguson in the eighth over of India’s innings. He hit four fours and a six, leaving even Rohit Sharma impressed by his performance.
In the first delivery of the over, Gill hit a wide, short of length ball straight down the ground, past mid-off for a four. The next delivery, he missed the ball, as it went past the edge. On the third ball, Gill hit the delivery past deep third for another four, and then hit a shot between mid-off and extra cover, making it two consecutive fours. In the fifth delivery, he received a short ball which he upper-cut over point for a stylish six, leaving even Rohit Sharma surprised. In the final delivery, Shubman hit Ferguson to cover point for a four, making it 22 off the over.
As the Indian cricket team prepares for the ODI World Cup, attention will be on Gill, especially with the team management trying to resolve its issues with openers. Following the ODI series, India will host New Zealand in a three-match T20I series, and after that, they will host Australia in a four-match Test series and three ODIs.