Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan says Shubman Gill is under increasing pressure to deliver following his recent slump in form. Pathan emphasised that Gill must start scoring consistently to secure his position in the T20I squad, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching and Sanju Samson waiting in the wings for a chance in the playing XI.
Gill’s troubles have been clear in the first two games of the ongoing five-match T20I series with South Africa. He scored only four runs in the first game and a golden duck in the second, raising further doubts about his form.
“The main topic is of Shubman Gill. He is the vice-captain, and the World Cup is nearing. But runs are not coming, and he is struggling for form. He must make runs if he is to cement his spot in the T20I side, else he will be more under pressure. Gill got out for a first-ball duck in the second T20I, but it’s not his game to step out and play as he did in the first. Whenever he doesn’t make runs, the pressure will pile on because Sanju Samson is currently benched,” said Pathan on his YouTube channel.
Irfan Pathan feels that if India is backing Gill for the upcoming World Cup, it becomes crucial for the young opener to score runs.
He warned that Gill’s continued struggles could hurt India, particularly in the powerplay where a solid start is essential. Pathan also mentioned that Samson should stay mentally prepared, as the team management may turn to him if Gill’s poor run persists. At the same time, Pathan expressed confidence that Gill will find form again, provided he sticks to his natural game plan.
“If Sanju Samson is brought into the side and doesn’t make runs, then India will be in a catch-22 situation. But if India are backing Shubman Gill for the World Cup, it’s critical for him to make runs. If it doesn’t, it will hurt India due to the good start they might not get. Secondly, Gill will find himself under constant pressure as he is part of the leadership group,” said Pathan.
“Hence, Samson should also be mentally ready. I will say it again that Gill will score runs if he sticks to his own game plan. If he keeps thinking that there’s another player waiting, it will be trouble. The team management’s role will be important then,” he concluded.
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