‘Sanju Samson was playing because Shubman Gill…’: Suryakumar Yadav, Ajit Agarkar’s bold remarks on India T20I VC
India’s rising cricket star, Suryakumar Yadav, recently shared his thoughts on Shubman Gill’s appointment as vice-captain of the India National Cricket Team for T20Is. According to Yadav, Gill has always been a top choice for a leadership role in the T20 format but was previously occupied with Test and ODI commitments.
Shubman Gill has cemented his place in the India squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, marking the beginning of a new era in Indian cricket. The young cricketer from Punjab has been entrusted with leadership responsibilities across formats. Gill currently serves as the Test captain, deputy to Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket, and vice-captain of the T20I team.
In his debut Test series as captain, Gill impressed everyone by scoring a remarkable 754 runs at an average of 75.40. His performance in ODI cricket has also been exceptional, with 2775 runs scored in 55 games at an impressive average of 59.04. Although his T20I numbers are not as impressive, with 578 runs in 21 games at an average of 30.42, Gill’s recent standout performances in the IPL indicate a promising future in the shortest format of the game.
During a press conference, Suryakumar Yadav expressed his delight at having Shubman Gill back in the T20I squad after his absence due to Test and ODI commitments. Yadav highlighted that Gill’s last T20I appearance for India was during the series in Sri Lanka, where he served as the vice-captain under Yadav’s leadership. With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, Gill’s return to the side is a significant development for the team.
BCCI chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, shed light on the selection process, mentioning that players like Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma got opportunities in T20Is due to the unavailability of Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Agarkar praised Abhishek Sharma’s performances and versatility, making it challenging to exclude him from the squad. However, he emphasized that Gill’s previous role as vice-captain in T20 cricket positions him as a strong contender for opening the innings in the upcoming Asia Cup.
Looking ahead to the Asia Cup 2025, either Shubman Gill or Sanju Samson is expected to partner with Abhishek Sharma at the top of the order. Gill’s appointment as the India T20I vice-captain reaffirms his value and contribution to the team’s leadership core. As Indian cricket transitions into a new phase, Gill’s emergence as a key figure promises exciting prospects in the T20 format and beyond.
Shubman Gill’s Versatility and Potential in T20 Cricket
Shubman Gill’s rise in Indian cricket has been nothing short of spectacular. His versatility across formats, from excelling in Test cricket as a captain to delivering consistent performances in ODIs, showcases his adaptability and skill set. While his T20I numbers may not be as impressive as his stats in other formats, Gill’s potential in the shortest format of the game is undeniable.
One of the key aspects that make Gill a valuable asset in T20 cricket is his ability to anchor an innings or accelerate as per the team’s requirements. His astute cricketing mind allows him to read the game situation and play accordingly, making him a reliable option at the top of the order. Gill’s technique, coupled with his temperament under pressure, makes him a formidable batsman in T20s, capable of steering the innings or launching a counter-attack when needed.
Furthermore, Gill’s experience as a leader in Test cricket and ODI cricket adds depth to his cricketing acumen. As the vice-captain of the T20I team, he brings a strategic mindset and a sense of responsibility to the role, which can have a positive impact on the team’s performance. Gill’s leadership qualities, combined with his performance on the field, make him a well-rounded cricketer who can contribute significantly to India’s T20 ambitions.
The upcoming Asia Cup presents a crucial opportunity for Shubman Gill to further establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in T20 cricket. As he gears up to open the innings alongside the likes of Abhishek Sharma or Sanju Samson, Gill will have the chance to showcase his batting prowess and solidify his position in the team. His ability to set the tone at the top of the order and build partnerships will be instrumental in India’s quest for success in the tournament.
In conclusion, Shubman Gill’s appointment as the vice-captain of the India T20I team signifies a new chapter in Indian cricket, with a focus on nurturing young talent and building a strong leadership core. Gill’s journey from a promising young cricketer to a key figure in the national team highlights the depth of talent in Indian cricket and the potential for greatness in the years to come. As he continues to evolve and make his mark in T20 cricket, Shubman Gill stands as a beacon of hope for Indian cricket fans, symbolizing the bright future that lies ahead for the team.


