Over the past few months, Shubman Gill has been a valuable player for India. Ever since he scored a double century in an ODI, he has become Rohit’s go-to opening partner. However, his recent performances against Australia have not been impressive.
During the Mumbai ODI, Gill was dismissed after scoring only 20 runs. Similarly, in the Vizag ODI yesterday, Mitchell Starc trapped him in the same way.
Shubman Gill found himself in a déjà vu moment during the 2nd ODI as he got out to the same delivery from Starc that had dismissed him in the 1st ODI. The Indian batter played the ball towards the point fielder, Marnus Labuschagne, and Gill appeared visibly frustrated with his shot.
Murali Kartik, the commentator, pointed out Gill’s lack of improvement. He commented, “He hasn’t learned from his mistake, poking at a delivery that’s wide-ish. It’s very similar to his dismissal in the first ODI. He can’t time it well enough and can’t keep it down, and the fielder takes the catch.” Kartik made these remarks during the live broadcast.
With Rohit Sharma as captain, it’s a given that he will open in the 2023 World Cup. However, the question remains: who will be his opening partner? Shikhar Dhawan is currently not in contention for selection in the one-day team, but his performance in the IPL could sway selectors’ opinions. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan are being groomed by the selectors and team management for the role.
Both young batters have shown their potential by scoring an ODI double century as openers, increasing competition for the spot. However, the team management appears to favor Shubman Gill over Kishan, with the former serving as a backup for both Rohit and Gill.