Shubman Gill: The Next Big Thing in Indian Cricket?

Rohan | Feb 21, 2025, 14:11 IST
Shubman Gill
The vice-captain of India in the ongoing ICC tournament, kicked off the event in style with a thrilling ton . Shubman Gill, The young right-handed batsman has displayed extraordinary skill and temperament, leading many to believe that he could be the next big thing in Indian cricket. His ability to build innings, maintain composure, and play aggressive yet classical shots makes him a perfect fit for India's top order. With his stellar performances, he has firmly established himself as India's No. 1 ODI batter, a position once dominated by legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.

1. Mr. Consistent: A Performer Across Formats

Gills last four knocks [ 101* (129) , 112 (102) , 60 (52) , 87 (96) speak the talent he possesses .His ability to set crucial matches is What Shubman Gill apart from many young cricketers is his ability to perform across all formats. His elegant stroke play, coupled with his ability to anchor an innings, makes him an ideal batter for all conditions. Since making his debut for the senior Indian team, Gill has consistently delivered strong performances.

A. Dominance in ODI Cricket

Shubman Gill’s ODI record speaks volumes about his potential. He has amassed 2,587 runs at an outstanding average of 60.16, surpassing Virat Kohli's 45.67 at the same stage of his career. In his first 50 ODIs, Gill has registered 8 centuries and 15 fifties, compared to Kohli's 5 centuries in the same number of matches. Gill, ranked as No 1 ODI batter, has won 3 POTM ( player of the match) out of four played in 2025.

Gill's breakthrough in ODIs came in 2022 and 2023, when he emerged as India's most reliable opener. His consistency in 50-over cricket has been nothing short of phenomenal. His ability to rotate strike, accelerate when needed, and score big hundreds has drawn comparisons with some of India's finest batsmen.

B. Leadership Quality

Shubman Gill has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, both on and off the field.He exudes confidence and maturity far beyond his age, reminiscent of great players who have led India to glory.

Beyond statistics and performances, what truly sets Shubman Gill apart is his leadership quality.His ability to perform under pressure, maintain composure in challenging situations, and continuously inspire teammates speaks volumes about his leadership potential. As vice-captain of the Indian team, Gill has already shown glimpses of his ability to lead from the front

His captaincy in the IPL has further highlighted his temperament, decision-making skills, and ability to rally his team in crucial moments. His strategic mindset, ability to handle pressure, and calm nature, combined with his relentless hunger for success, showcase his potential to be a future captain of the Indian cricket team.

C. Shubman Gill: The Prince of Indian Cricket in the Making

From being an Under-19 World Cup sensation to becoming India's leading ODI batter, Shubman Gill has followed in the footsteps of Virat Kohli, carving his own path to cricketing greatness.Shubman Gill became the fastest Indian to reach eight ODI centuries, achieving this milestone in just 52 innings. He broke Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan’s record, both of whom took 82 innings to reach the same landmark.

Gill’s rapid rise in international cricket has solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young batters in the world. His exceptional performances in the Under-19 World Cup were just the beginning, as he seamlessly transitioned into senior cricket, delivering match-winning knocks and displaying the temperament of a future legend.

2. Is Shubman Gill Ready to Take Over Kohli’s Throne?

Virat Kohli has been the undisputed king of Indian cricket for over a decade, leading the team with his relentless consistency, unmatched intensity, and hunger for success. As Kohli transitions into the latter phase of his career, Indian cricket seeks its next icon, and Shubman Gill has emerged as the perfect heir to the throne.

Following in Kohli's footsteps, Gill has embraced the same work ethic, passion, and hunger for big runs, establishing himself as a dependable match-winner across formats. His meteoric rise, marked by record-breaking performances and unwavering consistency, has positioned him as the "Prince" of Indian cricket—one who is steadily breaching the path to claim the crown. With an impeccable ODI record, leadership potential, and a temperament suited for the grandest stages, Gill is not just following Kohli’s legacy but is carving out his own, ensuring that Indian cricket’s dominance continues in the years to come.





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