In a cricketing landscape often clouded by selection debates and fan fervor, Sunil Gavaskar’s endorsement of Shubman Gill’s T20I comeback feels like a breath of clarity. The Little Master, never one for hollow praise, has called Gill’s return a “no-brainer”—a statement that carries weight not just for its authority but for its timing. With the T20 World Cup looming, India’s think tank faces pressure to balance experience with explosive youth, and Gavaskar’s words might just be the nudge they need.
Gill, who last featured in T20Is during the home series against Australia in late 2023, has since been a run-machine in the IPL and domestic circuits. His recent century for Gujarat Titans was a masterclass in anchoring an innings while maintaining a strike rate north of 150—a combination India has often struggled to find at the top. Gavaskar, in his characteristic style, pointed to these numbers without flinching. “When you have a player who can adapt to conditions, play both pace and spin with equal ease, and has the hunger to score big, you don’t overthink it,” he remarked in an exclusive chat with Hindustan Times.
But why does this matter now? India’s T20I setup has seen experimentation galore—from Ishan Kishan’s aggressive starts to Yashasvi Jaiswal’s left-handed flair. Yet, consistency has been elusive. Gill offers something different: a technically sound foundation that doesn’t sacrifice intent. His ability to shift gears, especially in powerplays, makes him a viable partner for Rohit Sharma or even a potential No. 3 if Virat Kohli needs flexibility. Gavaskar emphasized this versatility, noting, “He’s not just a top-order batter; he’s a problem-solver.”
The subtext here is India’s recent struggles in high-pressure chases. Gill’s knock against Chennai Super Kings last week, where he navigated a tricky chase with calculated aggression, showcased a maturity beyond his years. In Gavaskar’s view, this temperament is non-negotiable for World Cup cricket. “You need players who won’t fold under pressure, and Gill has shown he can handle it,” he added.
Of course, no selection is without its critics. Some argue that Gill’s strike rate in middle overs dips compared to hard-hitting specialists like Suryakumar Yadav. But Gavaskar countered this by highlighting Gill’s role as an anchor—a player who can rebuild if early wickets fall, a scenario India has faced too often in ICC events. “It’s about balance,” Gavaskar asserted. “You can’t have six sluggers; someone has to play the long game.”
Gill’s fielding and fitness further bolster his case. In an era where fielding standards define limited-overs success, his agility in the outfield and sharp throwing arm add tangible value. Gavaskar, who often laments modern cricket’s fitness gaps, praised Gill’s athleticism as “world-class.”
For Indian fans, this isn’t just about one player’s return; it’s about correcting course after a string of near-misses in global tournaments. Gavaskar’s endorsement, rooted in data and decades of insight, might finally pave the way for Gill’s reinstatement. As the selectors meet this week, his words will echo in the room: sometimes, the obvious choice is the right one.
