‘He is still the Test captain’ – Harbhajan Singh backs Shubman Gill amidst T20 team snub

Star hitter Shubman Gill has been withdrawn from India’s T20I team ahead of the forthcoming New Zealand series and the 2026 World Cup, with Sanju Samson taking his position as one of the chosen opening batters. Harbhajan Singh, a former India cricketer, believes that the Punjab cricketer’s departure from the T20 side was due to a combination of team balance and intense competition within the squad.

The great India spinner believes Gill’s battering style is still excellent and will enable him return to the side. The cricketer-turned-commentator also reminded everyone that the 26-year-old continues to captain the Indian side in Tests and One-Day Internationals, demonstrating that the selectors have a lot of faith in his potential and ability.

“It is not a signal for Gill. He was not taking his place for granted, but the competition is so tough that there are many players who can take that slot and perform well for the team. This is not the end of the road for him. He is a great player with beautiful technique. I believe he will make a brilliant comeback, and we should not forget that he is still the Test captain,” Harbhajan was quoted as saying by India Today.

Speaking further on Gill’s omission from the T20 squad, Harbhajan added that he understands why the selectors did not go ahead with the Fazilka-born in the team. The veteran cricketer continues to believe that the right call has eventually been made, keeping in mind the conditions and the combinations for the global event.

“I was listening to Ajit Agarkar and Captain Suryakumar Yadav. They were saying that Gill was excluded because of the combination. They must have taken the call depending on the conditions and the combination,” Harbhajan added.