Subhayan Chakraborty
Shubman Gill’s rise in international cricket has been phenomenal. Hailing from a small town of Fazilka, Punjab, Gill has emerged as one of India’s top batters, blending grace and power. Nicknamed ‘Prince’, Gill’s rise reflects hard work, top notch work ethic, family support and timely breakthroughs. He is currently India’s Test captain and a key figure in all formats, with leadership roles solidifying his status, and is being seen as India’s next all-format skipper.
Gill’s passion ignited early on his family’s farm, where his father, Lakhwinder, a cricket enthusiast, bowled endless deliveries to him from a very young age. To nurture his talent, the family relocated to Mohali for better facilities. Gill excelled in age-group cricket, debuting for Punjab U-14s and scoring a double century on his U-16 debut in the Vijay Merchant Trophy. His domestic prowess shone in the Ranji Trophy, where he amassed runs consistently.
The 2018 ICC U-19 World Cup was his launchpad. Gill scored 372 runs at an average of 124, earning the Player of the Tournament award, as India lifted the trophy. This led to IPL fame with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2018, where he evolved from an emerging talent to a mainstay, scoring 478 runs in 2021. Switching to Gujarat Titans in 2022, he helped them win the title with 483 runs. His 2023 season was explosive with 890 runs, three centuries, and the Orange Cap. Appointed GT captain in 2024, he balanced leadership with batting.
Gill made his international debut in ODIs against New Zealand in 2019, Tests in Australia in 2020 and T20Is in 2023. Milestones include a double century (208) in 2023, the youngest ever to register a double ton in ODIs, and the fastest to 2,000 ODI runs (38 innings). In Tests, he notched centuries against Bangladesh and England.
Leadership beckoned in 2024 with a T20I series win over Zimbabwe as captain. In 2025, as ODI vice-captain, he contributed to India’s Champions Trophy success. Named Test captain against England, he dazzled with centuries, including 269 and 161, setting captaincy records.
Currently, Gill is crafting his own legacy amid India’s transition from icons like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. With poise and potential, the ‘Prince’ eyes enduring reign as world cricket’s next poster boy.
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