By Subhayan Chakraborty in Brisbane
Since Shubman Gill returned to India’s T20I side for the 2025 Asia Cup, his strike rate has been under scrutiny. The youngster, who captains India in Tests and ODIs, made 46 runs from 39 deliveries in the fourth T20I against Australia, drawing some flak for his modest scoring pace even though it laid the platform for victory. Yet, the 26-year-old produced an aggressive display in the decisive T20I at the Gabba in Brisbane, remaining unbeaten on 29 off 16 balls with six fours, in what turned out to be a washed-out affair. Even in Canberra, when Gill really found his rhythm with the willow, scoring an unbeaten 37 off 20, rain forced the game to be abandoned.
Gill signalled his intent early in the third over by striking four consecutive boundaries off Ben Dwarshuis. When rain curtailed the final T20I at the Gabba, India skipper Suryakumar Yadav backed Gill, while his opening partner Abhishek Sharma described their pairing as “fire and fire” rather than “fire and ice.”
Abhishek, named Player of the Series after amassing 163 runs across five games, also praised Gill, highlighting their strong bond that helps build effective partnerships.
“It’s just fire and fire, not fire and ice. Look at the way he was playing today,” Abhishek told reporters. “We’ve been playing together since the Under-12 days, so there’s a good understanding. I know what shots he’s looking to play and which bowler he’s targeting. He also understands my game and helps me decide what sort of shots I should look to play.”
Rain caused the cancellation of the fifth T20I in Brisbane, sealing India’s 2-1 series win. Suryakumar has maintained an unbeaten record in T20I series since assuming captaincy in July 2024.
Suryakumar further defended Gill, emphasising that batting performances depend on conditions and the pitch.
“They both (Abhishek and Gill) are looking to match each other’s strike rates. It’s a combination of fire and fire,” Suryakumar said.
“In my opinion, if the wicket is a bit difficult, then it’s important to adapt. Today, the wicket was good, so these two scored more than 50. In the last game, it was important to read the wicket, and they did just that. At this level, experience helps and see how he (Gill) adapted in the last game. Both Abhishek and Gill communicate well. It’s just a case of adapting; they complement each other perfectly,” he added.
India’s next challenge is a full-fledged home series against South Africa in November–December.
Follow Revsportz for latest sports news
Watch the full PC here
