There is something between Shubman Gill and Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Gujarat Titans opener was on song today (May 15), hitting the first hundred for the franchise in the IPL 2023. While he was cheered throughout his knock, the fans also enjoyed veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s five-for.

After being asked to bat first, hosts GT lost Wriddhiman Saha in the first over while returning Sai Sudharsan was among the runs. Alongside Gill, who looked in ominous touch, the pair added a brilliant 147-run-stand for the second wicket.

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That HUNDRED feeling 🤗 
 
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/GH3aM3hyup">https://t.co/GH3aM3hyup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GTvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvSRH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShubmanGill</a> <a href="https://t.co/C9UyUBvHd1">pic.twitter.com/C9UyUBvHd1</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1658135979973279744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In the meantime, Gill also notched up his maiden IPL ton. Following Sai’s wicket, captain Hardik Pandya departed soon after on eight. It was then SunRisers inflicted a collapse as Gujarat, from 156 for three at one stage, got all out on 188, with Bhuvi returning with five for 30 in four overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-struggling-csk-recruit-ben-stokes-eyes-filler-role-as-fourth-bowler-during-home-ashes-592681">IPL 2023: Struggling CSK recruit Ben Stokes eyes 'filler' role as fourth bowler during home Ashes</a>

It still was a daunting target for SRH.

Already down and out Hyderabad side got off to a worst possible start, losing four wickets inside the Powerplay, with Mohammed Shami bagging three of them. The middle-order that pushed above its weight during the game against Rajasthan Royals failed to repeat the heroics and surrendered.&nbsp;

With the scorecard reading 59 for seven at one stage, SRH’s party looked like all but over. However, their highest run-scorer this season, Heinrich Klaasen, continued with his purple patch and completed another fifty.

Bhuvneshwar also contributed with runs as the pair did their best to delay GT a place in playoffs. After completing his half-century, Klaasen went about his business but fell prey to Shami, who picked his fourth wicket of the night. Mohit Sharma, known for bowling knuckle bowls, also picked four wickets as GT beat SRH by 34 runs.

With this, they became the first team to qualify for the playoffs this season, while SRH became the second team to get knocked out.

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𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗳𝗳𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱! ✅ 
 
Presenting the first team to qualify for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> playoffs! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GTvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvSRH</a> 
 
𝗚𝗨𝗝𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗦 👏🏻👏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/1std84Su6y">pic.twitter.com/1std84Su6y</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1658168493299335170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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There is something between Shubman Gill and Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Gujarat Titans opener was on song today (May 15), hitting the first hundred for the franchise in the IPL 2023.

There is something between Shubman Gill and Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The Gujarat Titans opener was on song today (May 15), hitting the first hundred for the franchise in the IPL 2023. While he was cheered throughout his knock, the fans also enjoyed veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s five-for. After being asked to bat first, hosts GT lost Wriddhiman Saha in the first over while returning Sai Sudharsan was among the runs. Alongside Gill, who looked in ominous touch, the pair added a brilliant 147-run-stand for the second wicket. That HUNDRED feeling 🤗 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/GH3aM3hyup #TATAIPL | #GTvSRH | @ShubmanGill pic.twitter.com/C9UyUBvHd1 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 15, 2023 × In the meantime, Gill also notched up his maiden IPL ton. Following Sai’s wicket, captain Hardik Pandya departed soon after on eight. It was then SunRisers inflicted a collapse as Gujarat, from 156 for three at one stage, got all out on 188, with Bhuvi returning with five for 30 in four overs. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Struggling CSK recruit Ben Stokes eyes 'filler' role as fourth bowler during home Ashes It still was a daunting target for SRH. Already down and out Hyderabad side got off to a worst possible start, losing four wickets inside the Powerplay, with Mohammed Shami bagging three of them. The middle-order that pushed above its weight during the game against Rajasthan Royals failed to repeat the heroics and surrendered. With the scorecard reading 59 for seven at one stage, SRH’s party looked like all but over. However, their highest run-scorer this season, Heinrich Klaasen, continued with his purple patch and completed another fifty. Bhuvneshwar also contributed with runs as the pair did their best to delay GT a place in playoffs. After completing his half-century, Klaasen went about his business but fell prey to Shami, who picked his fourth wicket of the night. Mohit Sharma, known for bowling knuckle bowls, also picked four wickets as GT beat SRH by 34 runs. With this, they became the first team to qualify for the playoffs this season, while SRH became the second team to get knocked out. 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗳𝗳𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱! ✅ Presenting the first team to qualify for the #TATAIPL playoffs! #GTvSRH 𝗚𝗨𝗝𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗦 👏🏻👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/1std84Su6y — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 15, 2023 ×

IPL 2023: Wonder-boy Shubman Gill slams maiden hundred as Gujarat Titans secure playoffs qualification

Gujarat Titans batsman Shubman Gill scored his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) ton in match 62 against struggling Sunrisers Hyderabad and broke a record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar.

Gill, who hit 58-ball 101 before getting dismissed, reached his fifty in just 22 balls with the help of nine boundaries. It is the fastest fifty ever in IPL by any player without hitting a six. The previous record was held by Sachin, who scored a fifty of 23 balls without any sixes in 2010 against erstwhile Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) while playing for Mumbai Indians.

Gill then went to hit four more fours and a six in his innings after reaching 50 as he notched up the first hundred ever by a Gujarat Titans batsman. Notably, nobody from the defending champions had scored a ton last season despite going all the way in the season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-struggling-csk-recruit-ben-stokes-eyes-filler-role-as-fourth-bowler-during-home-ashes-592681">Struggling CSK recruit Ben Stokes eyes 'filler' role as fourth bowler during home Ashes</a>

The top-order batsman is having a breakout season this will with 576 runs in 13 matches this season so far. His average is a whooping 48 while the strike rate is 146.19, both a personal best for him in IPL. The right-hand batter has also hit four fifties and a hundred in 2023 and has remained not out once.

Overall, the former U-19 star is having a dream 2023, having scored a century in each format of the game. that is, Tests, ODIs, T20Is and now in the IPL. Interestingly, Gill's century in Tests, T20Is and IPL have all come at Ahmedabad, showing his liking for the venue.

As for the match, Gujarat, after losing Wriddhiman Saha early on in the first innings, were ably helped by a sublime partnership between Gill and Sai Sudharsan as they added 147 for the second wicket. After Sudharsan got out on a personal score of 36-ball 47, SRH came back strongly to stop Titans at 188/9 in 20 overs. Hyderabad's Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the best bowler of the night with a five-wicket haul for 30 runs in his four overs.

Titans started the defence of their total mightily as they left SRH four down for a paltry 45 in six overs. Hyderabad cold never get back in the chase and despite Heinrich Klassen's 44-ball 64, lost by 34 runs. For Titans, both Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma took four wickets each.

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Gujarat Titans batsman Shubman Gill scored his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) ton in match 62 against struggling Sunrisers Hyderabad and broke a record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar.

Gujarat Titans batsman Shubman Gill scored his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) ton in match 62 against struggling Sunrisers Hyderabad and broke a record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar. Gill, who hit 58-ball 101 before getting dismissed, reached his fifty in just 22 balls with the help of nine boundaries. It is the fastest fifty ever in IPL by any player without hitting a six. The previous record was held by Sachin, who scored a fifty of 23 balls without any sixes in 2010 against erstwhile Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) while playing for Mumbai Indians. Gill then went to hit four more fours and a six in his innings after reaching 50 as he notched up the first hundred ever by a Gujarat Titans batsman. Notably, nobody from the defending champions had scored a ton last season despite going all the way in the season. Also Read: Struggling CSK recruit Ben Stokes eyes 'filler' role as fourth bowler during home Ashes The top-order batsman is having a breakout season this will with 576 runs in 13 matches this season so far. His average is a whooping 48 while the strike rate is 146.19, both a personal best for him in IPL. The right-hand batter has also hit four fifties and a hundred in 2023 and has remained not out once. Overall, the former U-19 star is having a dream 2023, having scored a century in each format of the game. that is, Tests, ODIs, T20Is and now in the IPL. Interestingly, Gill's century in Tests, T20Is and IPL have all come at Ahmedabad, showing his liking for the venue. As for the match, Gujarat, after losing Wriddhiman Saha early on in the first innings, were ably helped by a sublime partnership between Gill and Sai Sudharsan as they added 147 for the second wicket. After Sudharsan got out on a personal score of 36-ball 47, SRH came back strongly to stop Titans at 188/9 in 20 overs. Hyderabad's Bhuvneshwar Kumar was the best bowler of the night with a five-wicket haul for 30 runs in his four overs. Titans started the defence of their total mightily as they left SRH four down for a paltry 45 in six overs. Hyderabad cold never get back in the chase and despite Heinrich Klassen's 44-ball 64, lost by 34 runs. For Titans, both Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma took four wickets each. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Shubman Gill breaks Sachin Tendulkar's unique record with maiden ton for Gujarat Titans

Shubman Gill headlined Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans' (GT) 34-run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as the defending champions qualified for the IPL 2023 playoffs. Meanwhile, SRH bowed out of the playoff race with another defeat in their dismal campaign. Gill's 58-ball 101, laced with 13 fours and one six, struck at&nbsp;174.14 and slammed some sublime shots in all parts of the ground to now become only the fifth Indian -- after Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- to have hit centuries in IPL, Tests, ODIs and T20Is.

Gill has been growing in stature with each passing month. Since mid-2022, the right-hander has been on a run-scoring spree with hundreds in ODIs, Tests, T20Is and now in the IPL. He has been regarded as one of the superstar young batters of Indian cricket and Kohli lauded him after his maiden IPL century. Here's what Kohli wrote for Gill after his first-ever IPL hundred -

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-shubman-gill-breaks-sachin-tendulkars-unique-record-with-maiden-ton-for-gujarat-titans-592794">IPL 2023: Shubman Gill breaks Sachin Tendulkar's unique record with maiden ton for Gujarat Titans</a>

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After starring in GT's convincing win over SRH, in Ahmedabad, on Monday evening (May 15), Gill said at the post-match presentation, "I made my IPL debut against SRH and got my first hundred against them, so life has come a full circle. Hopefully, many more to come. It's all about the bowlers and situation and I don't dwell much on my last innings. It is important to focus on the situation in front. The six off Abhishek Sharma was the most pleasing thing for me. I told him that if you bowl to me I'm gonna hit you for a six. (ICYMI: Gill and Abhishek Sharma open for Punjab in domestic T20 cricket)."

Talking about the match, Hyderabad opted to bowl first as Gill's 101 took GT to 188/9 with Bhuvneshwar Kumar returning with 5 for 30. In reply, SRH only managed 154 for 9 with Mohit Sharma and Mohammed Shami claiming four scalps each.

Shubman Gill headlined Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans' (GT) 34-run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as the defending champions qualified for the IPL 2023 playoffs.

Shubman Gill headlined Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans' (GT) 34-run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) as the defending champions qualified for the IPL 2023 playoffs. Meanwhile, SRH bowed out of the playoff race with another defeat in their dismal campaign. Gill's 58-ball 101, laced with 13 fours and one six, struck at 174.14 and slammed some sublime shots in all parts of the ground to now become only the fifth Indian -- after Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- to have hit centuries in IPL, Tests, ODIs and T20Is. Gill has been growing in stature with each passing month. Since mid-2022, the right-hander has been on a run-scoring spree with hundreds in ODIs, Tests, T20Is and now in the IPL. He has been regarded as one of the superstar young batters of Indian cricket and Kohli lauded him after his maiden IPL century. Here's what Kohli wrote for Gill after his first-ever IPL hundred - Also Read: IPL 2023: Shubman Gill breaks Sachin Tendulkar's unique record with maiden ton for Gujarat Titans After starring in GT's convincing win over SRH, in Ahmedabad, on Monday evening (May 15), Gill said at the post-match presentation, "I made my IPL debut against SRH and got my first hundred against them, so life has come a full circle. Hopefully, many more to come. It's all about the bowlers and situation and I don't dwell much on my last innings. It is important to focus on the situation in front. The six off Abhishek Sharma was the most pleasing thing for me. I told him that if you bowl to me I'm gonna hit you for a six. (ICYMI: Gill and Abhishek Sharma open for Punjab in domestic T20 cricket)." Talking about the match, Hyderabad opted to bowl first as Gill's 101 took GT to 188/9 with Bhuvneshwar Kumar returning with 5 for 30. In reply, SRH only managed 154 for 9 with Mohit Sharma and Mohammed Shami claiming four scalps each.

Go on and lead the next generation: Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill after GT opener's maiden IPL ton

Gujarat Titans (GT) have tightened their grip on the playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after their dominant 56-run win&nbsp;against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Top knocks from Shubman Gill (unbeaten 94) and Wriddhiman Saha (81) helped GT reach their record total of 227/2 while restricting LSG at 171/7&nbsp;to earn another vital win to assure a place in the last four.

Gujarat Titans (GT) have tightened their grip on the playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after their dominant win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)&nbsp;in Ahmedabad. Top knocks from Shubman Gill (unbeaten 94) and Wriddhiman Saha (81) helped GT reach their record total of 227/2 to earn another vital win to assure a place in the last four.

With this win, GT have&nbsp;strengthened their hold on the top spot, with eight wins, three losses and 16 points. LSG, on the other hand, are in third position with five wins, five losses and a total of 11 points. While chasing 228 runs, LSG was off to a fine start, with Kyle Mayers smashing Hardik Pandya for a hat-trick of fours in the second over.

The duo of Quinton de Kock and Mayers did not even spare Mohammed Shami, who had been phenomenal in powerplay, smashing him for 19 runs, including three boundaries and a six.

Kock-Mayers continued their onslaught on GT skipper Pandya, smashing him for 15 runs in the next over, bringing up 50-run stand in four overs. The over also included three well-placed boundaries, two by de Kock and one by Mayers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sunil-gavaskar-slams-mi-skipper-rohit-for-playing-rash-shot-against-csk-wants-him-to-take-break-589890">IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar slams MI skipper Rohit for playing rash shot against CSK, wants him to take break</a>

LSG finished their innings at 171/7 in their 10 overs. GT gave away only 71 runs in their next 10 overs while bowling and took six wickets. LSG lost the match by 56 runs.

With a spell of 4/29 in four overs, Mohit Sharma was the pick of the bowlers for GT. Rashid, Noor, and Shami got one wicket each.

Put to bat first by LSG, GT were off to a fantastic start, with openers Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill hitting centuries for fun.

The gigantic 142-run opening stand was broken by Avesh Khan, who dismissed Saha for 81 off 43 balls. His knock consisted of 10 fours and four sixes, with substitute Prerak Mankad taking a fine catch at deep square leg. GT were at 142/1 in 12.1 overs.

GT ended their innings at 227/2, with Gill unbeaten at 94 off 51 balls, consisting of two fours and seven sixes and David Miller at 21* off 12 balls, consisting of two fours and a six.

Avesh Khan (1/34) and Mohsin Khan (1/42) took a wicket each for LSG.

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Gujarat Titans (GT) have tightened their grip on the playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after their dominant 56-run win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Gujarat Titans (GT) have tightened their grip on the playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after their dominant 56-run win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Top knocks from Shubman Gill (unbeaten 94) and Wriddhiman Saha (81) helped GT reach their record total of 227/2 while restricting LSG at 171/7 to earn another vital win to assure a place in the last four. Gujarat Titans (GT) have tightened their grip on the playoff berth in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after their dominant win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Ahmedabad. Top knocks from Shubman Gill (unbeaten 94) and Wriddhiman Saha (81) helped GT reach their record total of 227/2 to earn another vital win to assure a place in the last four. With this win, GT have strengthened their hold on the top spot, with eight wins, three losses and 16 points. LSG, on the other hand, are in third position with five wins, five losses and a total of 11 points. While chasing 228 runs, LSG was off to a fine start, with Kyle Mayers smashing Hardik Pandya for a hat-trick of fours in the second over. The duo of Quinton de Kock and Mayers did not even spare Mohammed Shami, who had been phenomenal in powerplay, smashing him for 19 runs, including three boundaries and a six. Kock-Mayers continued their onslaught on GT skipper Pandya, smashing him for 15 runs in the next over, bringing up 50-run stand in four overs. The over also included three well-placed boundaries, two by de Kock and one by Mayers. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar slams MI skipper Rohit for playing rash shot against CSK, wants him to take break LSG finished their innings at 171/7 in their 10 overs. GT gave away only 71 runs in their next 10 overs while bowling and took six wickets. LSG lost the match by 56 runs. With a spell of 4/29 in four overs, Mohit Sharma was the pick of the bowlers for GT. Rashid, Noor, and Shami got one wicket each. Put to bat first by LSG, GT were off to a fantastic start, with openers Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill hitting centuries for fun. The gigantic 142-run opening stand was broken by Avesh Khan, who dismissed Saha for 81 off 43 balls. His knock consisted of 10 fours and four sixes, with substitute Prerak Mankad taking a fine catch at deep square leg. GT were at 142/1 in 12.1 overs. GT ended their innings at 227/2, with Gill unbeaten at 94 off 51 balls, consisting of two fours and seven sixes and David Miller at 21* off 12 balls, consisting of two fours and a six. Avesh Khan (1/34) and Mohsin Khan (1/42) took a wicket each for LSG. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: GT tighten grip on playoff berth with dominant win, beat LSG by 56 runs

Kolkata Knight Riders CEO and managing director Venky Mysore admits the franchise does not regret not retaining players that are now bringing laurels to other franchises, someone like Shubman Gill. Speaking on the sidelines of the Knight Golf event, as reported by PTI, Mysore said he would rather be happy for the players that they developed and now those who are doing well for other teams than cribbing over it, as he thinks KKR made a right call based on the available information.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill, who played for KKR for a couple of seasons, was picked by Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2022 auctions – and that move paid dividends as the young right-hander scored 483 runs the past season and helped GT win the maiden IPL title.&nbsp;

Even as things stand, Gill is on the course of bagging the Orange Cap, as in eight outings so far, he has scored 333 runs and is only behind Faf du Plessis on the chart.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-wanted-to-captain-deccan-chargers-he-used-to-think-like-a-skipper-reveals-former-teammate-587525">'Rohit Sharma wanted to captain Deccan Chargers, he used to think like a skipper..,' reveals former teammate</a>

“There is actually happiness when we see some of the players we have developed go to other franchises and do well — Shubman Gill is an example,” Mysore said, as quoted by PTI.

Not just Gill, KKR did let go of a few other players who have performed well for their new franchises thus far this season – the examples of whom are Ajinkya Rahane and Kuldeep Yadav. While Kuldeep is the joint-highest wicket-taker for Delhi Capitals in eight games played, Rahane’s transformation under MS Dhoni in CSK is turning heads around the cricket world.

Admitting that IPL rules further make it difficult for franchises to keep a very limited number of players, Mysore said it's not easy to let some good names leave, but harsh calls needs to be taken. Justifying this, he said in 2021, KKR made it to the finals on the back of performances from the Indian duo of Venkatesh Iyer and Shreyas alongside Windies’ Andre Russell and Sunil Narine – all of whom need no introduction.

And with IPL rules allowing every franchisee to retain just four players, those players made the cut while others, unfortunately, did not.

“The limitation as you know, is the rules the IPL and BCCI make. In the 2022 auction, we were allowed to keep only four players. There’s always a debate. There are always eight or nine whom we would like to keep, you had to select four out of those. It’s tough, but that’s the system though. It happens to every team. (KKR captain) Shreyas (Iyer) was with Delhi, and he’s with us, so on and forth… I can give any number of examples. It’s never a regret, and the decisions were made based on the set of information that was available at that point. We believe those were the right decisions we made, but it’s always tough to lose some players,” Mysore opined.

He added that in the end, it makes him happy that KKR’s performers went for huge numbers in the auction, and that some of them are even doing well for their sides.

“Rahul Tripathi (8.5 crores to Sunrisers Hyderabad), Lockie Ferguson (Rs 10 crores GT), Prasidh Krishna (Rs 10 crore to Rajasthan Royals) you can name several of them who went for big money at auction.

“So, when you see those types of numbers you feel happy for them. It’s always a little backhanded compliment to our ability to bring those types of players and grow them in our setup,” Mysore added.

Kolkata Knight Riders CEO and managing director Venky Mysore admits the franchise does not regret not retaining players that are now bringing laurels to other franchises, someone like Shubman Gill.

Kolkata Knight Riders CEO and managing director Venky Mysore admits the franchise does not regret not retaining players that are now bringing laurels to other franchises, someone like Shubman Gill. Speaking on the sidelines of the Knight Golf event, as reported by PTI, Mysore said he would rather be happy for the players that they developed and now those who are doing well for other teams than cribbing over it, as he thinks KKR made a right call based on the available information. Shubman Gill, who played for KKR for a couple of seasons, was picked by Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2022 auctions – and that move paid dividends as the young right-hander scored 483 runs the past season and helped GT win the maiden IPL title. Even as things stand, Gill is on the course of bagging the Orange Cap, as in eight outings so far, he has scored 333 runs and is only behind Faf du Plessis on the chart. ALSO READ: 'Rohit Sharma wanted to captain Deccan Chargers, he used to think like a skipper..,' reveals former teammate “There is actually happiness when we see some of the players we have developed go to other franchises and do well — Shubman Gill is an example,” Mysore said, as quoted by PTI. Not just Gill, KKR did let go of a few other players who have performed well for their new franchises thus far this season – the examples of whom are Ajinkya Rahane and Kuldeep Yadav. While Kuldeep is the joint-highest wicket-taker for Delhi Capitals in eight games played, Rahane’s transformation under MS Dhoni in CSK is turning heads around the cricket world. Admitting that IPL rules further make it difficult for franchises to keep a very limited number of players, Mysore said it's not easy to let some good names leave, but harsh calls needs to be taken. Justifying this, he said in 2021, KKR made it to the finals on the back of performances from the Indian duo of Venkatesh Iyer and Shreyas alongside Windies’ Andre Russell and Sunil Narine – all of whom need no introduction. And with IPL rules allowing every franchisee to retain just four players, those players made the cut while others, unfortunately, did not. “The limitation as you know, is the rules the IPL and BCCI make. In the 2022 auction, we were allowed to keep only four players. There’s always a debate. There are always eight or nine whom we would like to keep, you had to select four out of those. It’s tough, but that’s the system though. It happens to every team. (KKR captain) Shreyas (Iyer) was with Delhi, and he’s with us, so on and forth… I can give any number of examples. It’s never a regret, and the decisions were made based on the set of information that was available at that point. We believe those were the right decisions we made, but it’s always tough to lose some players,” Mysore opined. He added that in the end, it makes him happy that KKR’s performers went for huge numbers in the auction, and that some of them are even doing well for their sides. “Rahul Tripathi (8.5 crores to Sunrisers Hyderabad), Lockie Ferguson (Rs 10 crores GT), Prasidh Krishna (Rs 10 crore to Rajasthan Royals) you can name several of them who went for big money at auction. “So, when you see those types of numbers you feel happy for them. It’s always a little backhanded compliment to our ability to bring those types of players and grow them in our setup,” Mysore added.

IPL 2023: KKR’s Venky Mysore opens up on not retaining Shubman Gill, says he has no regrets

Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan thinks that KL Rahul would be a better fit at the top order in India's playing XI in the WTC Final against Australia instead of Shubman Gill.&nbsp;

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Vaughan said, "I'm not sure they will do that (replacing Shubman with KL Rahul) because I'm not in the selection room. (But) don't pick a team on what's next, or who's going to play in the West Indies… you've got to pick (the team for) that one game of cricket."

Vaughan went on to explain his logic behind supporting KL Rahul for the opening slot over Shubman Gill despite the latter performing decently enough during India's last Test series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-set-to-miss-2023-icc-odi-world-cup-claims-report-586195">Rishabh Pant set to miss 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, claims report</a>

"The only change that they could make in English conditions, is that KL Rahul plays the moving ball better than Shubman Gill. Shubman's a tremendous young player, but you've got to win that one game of cricket. Forget history, it's about picking the best XI to win the World Test Championship. When it's straight, Shubman is a dangerous player but I've seen a few little technical deficiencies. When the ball moves, he takes his hand little bit too much towards the ball. He snicks off quite consistently," explained the fomer English cricketer.

Notably, India dropped KL Rahul from the Playing XI during the Border-Gavaskar Test series following a string of low scores. Rahul scored only 38 runs in three innings of two Tests he was part of with a high score of 20. His replacement Gill, meanwhile, fared much better as he scored 154 runs in three innings of two Tests, including a century.

As of now, Shubman Gill seems a lock in the Playing XI for the WTC Final starting June 7, but things could be changed any moment and for better or for worse. 
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Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan thinks that KL Rahul would be a better fit at the top order in India's playing XI in the WTC Final against Australia instead of Shubman Gill.

Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan thinks that KL Rahul would be a better fit at the top order in India's playing XI in the WTC Final against Australia instead of Shubman Gill. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Vaughan said, "I'm not sure they will do that (replacing Shubman with KL Rahul) because I'm not in the selection room. (But) don't pick a team on what's next, or who's going to play in the West Indies… you've got to pick (the team for) that one game of cricket." Vaughan went on to explain his logic behind supporting KL Rahul for the opening slot over Shubman Gill despite the latter performing decently enough during India's last Test series. Also Read: Rishabh Pant set to miss 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, claims report "The only change that they could make in English conditions, is that KL Rahul plays the moving ball better than Shubman Gill. Shubman's a tremendous young player, but you've got to win that one game of cricket. Forget history, it's about picking the best XI to win the World Test Championship. When it's straight, Shubman is a dangerous player but I've seen a few little technical deficiencies. When the ball moves, he takes his hand little bit too much towards the ball. He snicks off quite consistently," explained the fomer English cricketer. Notably, India dropped KL Rahul from the Playing XI during the Border-Gavaskar Test series following a string of low scores. Rahul scored only 38 runs in three innings of two Tests he was part of with a high score of 20. His replacement Gill, meanwhile, fared much better as he scored 154 runs in three innings of two Tests, including a century. As of now, Shubman Gill seems a lock in the Playing XI for the WTC Final starting June 7, but things could be changed any moment and for better or for worse. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Michael Vaughan wants India to replace Gill with KL Rahul as opener in England for THIS reason

Shubman Gill was hit with the commentator’s curse on Saturday, April 22 after he was dismissed for a duck in the Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Playing for Gujarat Titans (GT), Gill who has been in sensational form in 2023 was dismissed for a duck, which was predicted by former India Test opener Akash Chopra.

"In batting, Wriddhiman Saha gives starts but doesn't make a big score. There will be pressure on Shubman Gill because this pitch will not be that flat. [B] Sai Sudharsan has been very, very good but a run-a-ball. David Miller is brilliant and is more effective in a run chase,” Akash had predicted early.

Deciding to bat first, Gujarat Titans (GT) openers Gill and Wriddhiman Saha walked out to bat and looked to continue their impressive run. Before the match started, Gill scored 228 runs in the five IPL matches with a best of 67 and has scored two fifties. But like Akash predicted the pitch was not flat and won’t be helpful for the India batter to stamp his authority.

On the second ball of the second over, Gill did not judge Krunal Pandya’s delivery and ended up handing a simple catch to Ravi Bishnoi. The dismissal paved way for LSG to strike an early blow and establish an early advantage in the contest.

Akash also spoke fondly about the GT bowling and thinks they have all the tools in the arsenal to succeed in the contest.

"Gujarat have a very good bowling attack. They have Mohammad Shami, Alzarri Joseph, Mohit Sharma and Joshua Little. Then they have got Rashid Khan and Hardik Pandya is bowling his full quota of overs."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/veteran-ms-dhoni-drops-a-bombshell-on-his-ipl-future-says-its-the-last-phase-of-my-career-and-i-am-585010">Veteran MS Dhoni drops a bombshell on his IPL future, says 'it's the last phase of my career and I am...'</a>

Teams:

Gujarat Titans (Playing XI): Wriddhiman Saha(w), Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya(c), Vijay Shankar, Abhinav Manohar, David Miller, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, Mohit Sharma

Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): KL Rahul(c), Kyle Mayers, Deepak Hooda, Marcus Stoinis, Krunal Pandya, Nicholas Pooran(w), Ayush Badoni, Naveen-ul-Haq, Amit Mishra, Avesh Khan, Ravi Bishnoi

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Shubman Gill was hit with the commentator’s curse on Saturday, April 22 after he was dismissed for a duck in the Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Shubman Gill was hit with the commentator’s curse on Saturday, April 22 after he was dismissed for a duck in the Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Playing for Gujarat Titans (GT), Gill who has been in sensational form in 2023 was dismissed for a duck, which was predicted by former India Test opener Akash Chopra. "In batting, Wriddhiman Saha gives starts but doesn't make a big score. There will be pressure on Shubman Gill because this pitch will not be that flat. [B] Sai Sudharsan has been very, very good but a run-a-ball. David Miller is brilliant and is more effective in a run chase,” Akash had predicted early. Deciding to bat first, Gujarat Titans (GT) openers Gill and Wriddhiman Saha walked out to bat and looked to continue their impressive run. Before the match started, Gill scored 228 runs in the five IPL matches with a best of 67 and has scored two fifties. But like Akash predicted the pitch was not flat and won’t be helpful for the India batter to stamp his authority. On the second ball of the second over, Gill did not judge Krunal Pandya’s delivery and ended up handing a simple catch to Ravi Bishnoi. The dismissal paved way for LSG to strike an early blow and establish an early advantage in the contest. Akash also spoke fondly about the GT bowling and thinks they have all the tools in the arsenal to succeed in the contest. "Gujarat have a very good bowling attack. They have Mohammad Shami, Alzarri Joseph, Mohit Sharma and Joshua Little. Then they have got Rashid Khan and Hardik Pandya is bowling his full quota of overs." ALSO READ | Veteran MS Dhoni drops a bombshell on his IPL future, says 'it's the last phase of my career and I am...' Teams: Gujarat Titans (Playing XI): Wriddhiman Saha(w), Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya(c), Vijay Shankar, Abhinav Manohar, David Miller, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Shami, Noor Ahmad, Mohit Sharma Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): KL Rahul(c), Kyle Mayers, Deepak Hooda, Marcus Stoinis, Krunal Pandya, Nicholas Pooran(w), Ayush Badoni, Naveen-ul-Haq, Amit Mishra, Avesh Khan, Ravi Bishnoi WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Shubman Gill hit with commentators curse, dismissed for duck after Akash Chopra's prediction

Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gujarat Titans batter Shubman Gill might struggle on the Lucknow surface as it won't be a flat pitch. Knowing GT holds a unbeaten head-to-head record over LSG, Gill, who is among the contenders for the Orange Cap, could be under some pressure.&nbsp;

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra talked about GT's batting lineup, saying the opening pair that has got them success will have a challenging time ahead of them against the LSG bowlers. Breaking it further, Chopra added&nbsp;Saha might begin well, but doesn't pose huge scores.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-explains-whats-holding-back-the-odi-format-puts-forward-his-suggestion-on-how-to-revive-it-585045">Sachin Tendulkar explains what's holding back the ODI format, puts forward his suggestion on how to revive it</a>

About GT's Sai Sudharsan, Chopra feels he is the dark horse, and with form on his side, the left-handed batter could make the difference with the bat, while the same goes for South Africa's David Miller, who is better during a run-chase.

"In batting, Wriddhiman Saha gives starts but doesn't make a big score. There will be pressure on Shubman Gill because this pitch will not be that flat. [B] Sai Sudharsan has been very, very good but a run-a-ball. David Miller is brilliant and is more effective in a run chase," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

GT's bowling line up that is good on paper, has struggled to defend totals on two straight occasions. However, Aakash feels some big names in the rank will benefit the side, adding captain Hardik Pandya quota of overs too, who has found success with the new ball.

"Gujarat have a very good bowling attack. They have Mohammad Shami, Alzarri Joseph, Mohit Sharma and Joshua Little. Then they have got Rashid Khan, and Hardik Pandya is bowling his full quota of overs," Chopra added.

While Lucknow is coming off from a close win over Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat lost their previous encounter against the inaugural IPL winners by three wickets. At LSG's home stadium today, this contest is expected to be a mouth-watering one.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gujarat Titans batter Shubman Gill might struggle on the Lucknow surface as it won't be a flat pitch. Knowing GT holds a unbeaten head-to-head record over LSG, Gill, who is among the contenders for the Orange Cap, could be under some pressure.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Gujarat Titans batter Shubman Gill might struggle on the Lucknow surface as it won't be a flat pitch. Knowing GT holds a unbeaten head-to-head record over LSG, Gill, who is among the contenders for the Orange Cap, could be under some pressure. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra talked about GT's batting lineup, saying the opening pair that has got them success will have a challenging time ahead of them against the LSG bowlers. Breaking it further, Chopra added Saha might begin well, but doesn't pose huge scores. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar explains what's holding back the ODI format, puts forward his suggestion on how to revive it About GT's Sai Sudharsan, Chopra feels he is the dark horse, and with form on his side, the left-handed batter could make the difference with the bat, while the same goes for South Africa's David Miller, who is better during a run-chase. "In batting, Wriddhiman Saha gives starts but doesn't make a big score. There will be pressure on Shubman Gill because this pitch will not be that flat. [B] Sai Sudharsan has been very, very good but a run-a-ball. David Miller is brilliant and is more effective in a run chase," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel. GT's bowling line up that is good on paper, has struggled to defend totals on two straight occasions. However, Aakash feels some big names in the rank will benefit the side, adding captain Hardik Pandya quota of overs too, who has found success with the new ball. "Gujarat have a very good bowling attack. They have Mohammad Shami, Alzarri Joseph, Mohit Sharma and Joshua Little. Then they have got Rashid Khan, and Hardik Pandya is bowling his full quota of overs," Chopra added. While Lucknow is coming off from a close win over Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat lost their previous encounter against the inaugural IPL winners by three wickets. At LSG's home stadium today, this contest is expected to be a mouth-watering one.

IPL 2023: There will be pressure on Shubman Gill as Lucknow pitch is not that flat, says Aakash Chopra

Shubman Gill has been in the form of his life. After slamming a double ton in ODI cricket early this year, Gill scored his second Test hundred during India's home Tests versus Australia and is looking in good touch in IPL 2023 for the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT).

Gill scored a 49-ball 67 -- his second fifty of the season -- in GT's six-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali on Thursday (April 13). While many criticised his poor strike rate in the end overs and his inability to finish the run-chase, the right-hander is surely becoming a run-machine in all formats.&nbsp;

Recently, former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja lavished huge praise on Gill as he agreed with the prediction that he could be the next best batsman after Virat Kohli in Indian cricket. On his Youtube channel, Raja said, “He has so much potential, he has so much time. He looks so naturally beautiful when he plays. When he drives, there's a curve on the shot. He has a lot of time to play his strokes. It doesn't matter if he scores on the off side, on side, hook or pull, it's just so beautiful and neat-and-clean. Many predict that he could be the next best batsman after Virat Kohli. He has touch, class, and elegance like Rohit Sharma. And his temperament is quite strong."

Also Read:&nbsp;'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/show-temperament-like-ms-dhoni-manjrekar-schools-shubman-gill-after-gts-close-win-over-pbks-in-ipl-2023-582444">Show temperament like MS Dhoni": Manjrekar schools Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023</a>

Ramiz further added, "From Tests, ODIs, and T20Is as well, he has tormented the bowlers. When you see him, it seems the time has stopped. At such a young age, he already has records. Sky is the limit for him."

Gill will be eager to carry on the momentum and also maintain a healthy strike rate in the remainder of IPL 2023 and help Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat defend their title in the ongoing IPL season. The right-hander has become India's regular across formats and is set to open with captain Rohit Sharma in this year's ODI World Cup, at home, in October-November.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill has been in the form of his life. After slamming a double ton in ODI cricket early this year, Gill scored his second Test hundred during India's home Tests versus Australia and is looking in good touch in IPL 2023 for the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT).

Shubman Gill has been in the form of his life. After slamming a double ton in ODI cricket early this year, Gill scored his second Test hundred during India's home Tests versus Australia and is looking in good touch in IPL 2023 for the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT). Gill scored a 49-ball 67 -- his second fifty of the season -- in GT's six-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali on Thursday (April 13). While many criticised his poor strike rate in the end overs and his inability to finish the run-chase, the right-hander is surely becoming a run-machine in all formats. Recently, former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja lavished huge praise on Gill as he agreed with the prediction that he could be the next best batsman after Virat Kohli in Indian cricket. On his Youtube channel, Raja said, “He has so much potential, he has so much time. He looks so naturally beautiful when he plays. When he drives, there's a curve on the shot. He has a lot of time to play his strokes. It doesn't matter if he scores on the off side, on side, hook or pull, it's just so beautiful and neat-and-clean. Many predict that he could be the next best batsman after Virat Kohli. He has touch, class, and elegance like Rohit Sharma. And his temperament is quite strong." Also Read: 'Show temperament like MS Dhoni": Manjrekar schools Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023 Ramiz further added, "From Tests, ODIs, and T20Is as well, he has tormented the bowlers. When you see him, it seems the time has stopped. At such a young age, he already has records. Sky is the limit for him." Gill will be eager to carry on the momentum and also maintain a healthy strike rate in the remainder of IPL 2023 and help Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat defend their title in the ongoing IPL season. The right-hander has become India's regular across formats and is set to open with captain Rohit Sharma in this year's ODI World Cup, at home, in October-November.

'Many predict he could be the next best batsman after Kohli': Raja lauds Gill, reserves huge praise for him

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 18 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13), at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Opting to bowl first, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab for 153 for 8 courtesy of Mohit Sharma's 2 for 18. In reply, GT dominated the run-chase for a large part but Punjab bowlers stretched the game till the final over where Rahul Tewatia's timely hit (5 not out off 2 balls) propelled the defending champions to a six-wicket win with a ball to spare.

From GT, opener Shubman Gill top-scored with a 49-ball 67. While he continues to grow in stature with his consistency, questions still arise on his ability to finish a run-chase and strike big towards the latter stage of the innings. He reached 35 off 22 balls but slowed down considerably, with GT losing Sai Sudharshan and captain Hardik Pandya, during the fag end of the run-chase. As a result, Gill took another 18 balls to get to his fifty. Holding one end, he was expected to complete the run-chase but got dismissed in the final over, by Sam Curran, with GT still requiring six off four balls.&nbsp;

Thus, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has schooled Gill and asked him to take a leaf out of MS Dhoni, one of the greatest finishers of all-time.

Manjrekar, in conversation with ESPNCricinfo, said, "Champion teams are those who are mindful of their weak areas even when winning matches and tackle the same. Against KKR, there was a clear lesson for Gujarat that on the good pitch don’t play with only five bowlers."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-get-a-tight-slap-from-cricket-sehwag-slams-shubman-gill-after-gts-close-win-over-pbks-in-ipl-2023-582385">'You will get a tight slap from cricket': Sehwag SLAMS Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 202</a>3

He further opined, "From this game, the takeaway is that if a batter is set, he should try and finish the game in the 18th or 19th over. If you are taking it till the end, show a temperament like MS Dhoni and don’t get out. Shubman Gill might be asked how the game went to the 20th over. Sai Sudharsan scored at a strike rate of around 100. David Miller was also rather quiet."

Gill, too, spoke about his innings and said after the match, "It got slower with the old ball. So we needed to get off to a good start in the powerplay. We lost a bit of momentum when Hardik bhai got out. It wasn't a big score but it was important to rotate the strike and not have dot balls."

At the post-match presentation, Hardik pointed out, "To be very honest I would not appreciate for the game to go this deep. There was definitely a lot for us to learn from this game... It would have been a tough pill to swallow if the game had gone the other side. I would like to finish the game earlier, not a big fan of taking it to the last over."

Thus, Gill will be eager to remain unbeaten&nbsp;in GT's upcoming run-chases in IPL 2023 and also increase his strike rate as his inning progresses.

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 18 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13), at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Opting to bowl first, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab for 153 for 8 courtesy of Mohit Sharma's 2 for 18.

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 18 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13), at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Opting to bowl first, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab for 153 for 8 courtesy of Mohit Sharma's 2 for 18. In reply, GT dominated the run-chase for a large part but Punjab bowlers stretched the game till the final over where Rahul Tewatia's timely hit (5 not out off 2 balls) propelled the defending champions to a six-wicket win with a ball to spare. From GT, opener Shubman Gill top-scored with a 49-ball 67. While he continues to grow in stature with his consistency, questions still arise on his ability to finish a run-chase and strike big towards the latter stage of the innings. He reached 35 off 22 balls but slowed down considerably, with GT losing Sai Sudharshan and captain Hardik Pandya, during the fag end of the run-chase. As a result, Gill took another 18 balls to get to his fifty. Holding one end, he was expected to complete the run-chase but got dismissed in the final over, by Sam Curran, with GT still requiring six off four balls. Thus, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has schooled Gill and asked him to take a leaf out of MS Dhoni, one of the greatest finishers of all-time. Manjrekar, in conversation with ESPNCricinfo, said, "Champion teams are those who are mindful of their weak areas even when winning matches and tackle the same. Against KKR, there was a clear lesson for Gujarat that on the good pitch don’t play with only five bowlers." Also Read: 'You will get a tight slap from cricket': Sehwag SLAMS Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023 He further opined, "From this game, the takeaway is that if a batter is set, he should try and finish the game in the 18th or 19th over. If you are taking it till the end, show a temperament like MS Dhoni and don’t get out. Shubman Gill might be asked how the game went to the 20th over. Sai Sudharsan scored at a strike rate of around 100. David Miller was also rather quiet." Gill, too, spoke about his innings and said after the match, "It got slower with the old ball. So we needed to get off to a good start in the powerplay. We lost a bit of momentum when Hardik bhai got out. It wasn't a big score but it was important to rotate the strike and not have dot balls." At the post-match presentation, Hardik pointed out, "To be very honest I would not appreciate for the game to go this deep. There was definitely a lot for us to learn from this game... It would have been a tough pill to swallow if the game had gone the other side. I would like to finish the game earlier, not a big fan of taking it to the last over." Thus, Gill will be eager to remain unbeaten in GT's upcoming run-chases in IPL 2023 and also increase his strike rate as his inning progresses.

'Show temperament like MS Dhoni": Manjrekar schools Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023

Gujarat Titans (GT) returned to winning ways in IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13). Locking horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan &amp; Co. to 153 for 8 and chased down the target in 19.5 overs with six wickets in hand. Although GT was on course to reach the target for most part of their run-chase, they were strechted by all means by the Punjab bowlers as the defending champions managed to edge past them on the penultimate ball of the contest.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill top-scored for GT, and overall, with a 49-ball 67 but could not remain unbeaten as Sam Curran rattled his stumps in the last over, with six required off the last four balls. While the in-form right-hander was at 35 off 22 balls, he took another 18 balls to reach the 50-run mark. Thus, he was criticised for being slow in the end overs, increasing the pressure and then succumbing to it in the final over. Eventually, Rahul Tewatia's timely hit (5 not out off 2 balls) sealed the deal for GT but former cricketer Virender Sehwag has slammed Gill's approach.&nbsp;

Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "He scored 67 off 49 balls but when did he reach his fiifty? He reached his fifty off maybe 41-42 balls so in 7-8 balls he has scored 17 more runs. The accelration came there, after he had reached his fifty. If even that had not happened then GT would have chasing maybe 17 instead off 7 in the last over."

He further added, "You can't think let me score a fifty and we will anyway win the match. This is cricket. The moment you think about your own performance (instead of the team), you will get a tight slap from cricket. You can't think like that. If he had showed the same intent and played at close to a strike rate of 200 when he was nearing fifty then he could have reached his milestone a lot earlier and save more deliveries for his team."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-in-gt-gave-yash-dayal-any-sympathy-tewatia-recalls-how-he-motivated-pacer-after-rinkus-onslaught-582357">'Nobody in GT gave Yash Dayal any sympathy': Tewatia recalls how he motivated pacer after Rinku's onslaught</a>

Gill, too, spoke about his innings and said in the after the game, "It got slower with the old ball. So we needed to get off to a good start in the powerplay. We lost a bit of momentum when Hardik bhai got out. It wasn't a big score but it was important to rotate the strike and not have dot balls."

At the post-match presentation, Hardik Pandya stated, "To be very honest I would not appreciate for the game to go this deep. There was definitely a lot for us to learn from this game... It would have been a tough pill to swallow if the game had gone the other side. I would like to finish the game earlier, not a big fan of taking it to the last over."

Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. occupy the third spot in the points table following their close win over Punjab, with three victories from four outings.

Gujarat Titans (GT) returned to winning ways in IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13). Locking horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan & Co.

Gujarat Titans (GT) returned to winning ways in IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13). Locking horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Mohali, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan & Co. to 153 for 8 and chased down the target in 19.5 overs with six wickets in hand. Although GT was on course to reach the target for most part of their run-chase, they were strechted by all means by the Punjab bowlers as the defending champions managed to edge past them on the penultimate ball of the contest. Shubman Gill top-scored for GT, and overall, with a 49-ball 67 but could not remain unbeaten as Sam Curran rattled his stumps in the last over, with six required off the last four balls. While the in-form right-hander was at 35 off 22 balls, he took another 18 balls to reach the 50-run mark. Thus, he was criticised for being slow in the end overs, increasing the pressure and then succumbing to it in the final over. Eventually, Rahul Tewatia's timely hit (5 not out off 2 balls) sealed the deal for GT but former cricketer Virender Sehwag has slammed Gill's approach. Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "He scored 67 off 49 balls but when did he reach his fiifty? He reached his fifty off maybe 41-42 balls so in 7-8 balls he has scored 17 more runs. The accelration came there, after he had reached his fifty. If even that had not happened then GT would have chasing maybe 17 instead off 7 in the last over." He further added, "You can't think let me score a fifty and we will anyway win the match. This is cricket. The moment you think about your own performance (instead of the team), you will get a tight slap from cricket. You can't think like that. If he had showed the same intent and played at close to a strike rate of 200 when he was nearing fifty then he could have reached his milestone a lot earlier and save more deliveries for his team." Also Read: 'Nobody in GT gave Yash Dayal any sympathy': Tewatia recalls how he motivated pacer after Rinku's onslaught Gill, too, spoke about his innings and said in the after the game, "It got slower with the old ball. So we needed to get off to a good start in the powerplay. We lost a bit of momentum when Hardik bhai got out. It wasn't a big score but it was important to rotate the strike and not have dot balls." At the post-match presentation, Hardik Pandya stated, "To be very honest I would not appreciate for the game to go this deep. There was definitely a lot for us to learn from this game... It would have been a tough pill to swallow if the game had gone the other side. I would like to finish the game earlier, not a big fan of taking it to the last over." Hardik Pandya & Co. occupy the third spot in the points table following their close win over Punjab, with three victories from four outings.

'You will get a tight slap from cricket': Sehwag SLAMS Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023

After a shocking loss at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), courtesy of Rinku Singh's unbelievable finish, defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) got back to winning ways as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six wickets in an intense run-chase of 154 at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Thursday evening (April 13). With this win, GT now have six points from four games and occupy the third spot in the points table.

Opting to bowl first, GT removed Yash Dayal from the playing XI -- who conceded 29 off the last over versus KKR -- as Mohit Sharma, India's 2015 ODI World Cup member, got the nod in the playing XI. Mohammed Shami struck early as he removed Prabhsimran Singh for duck (second on the trot). In-form skipper Shikhar Dhawan also departed for eight as PBKS was on the back foot in the powerplay overs.

While Bhanuka Rajapaksa (20 off 26) and Matthew Short (36 off 24) added runs for the side, the duo couldn't make the most of their starts as GT bowlers remained disciplined and didn't allow Punjab to dictate terms.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-hardik-pandya-reflects-on-gts-loss-to-kkr-says-it-was-a-one-in-a-million-defeat-582212">IPL 2023: Hardik Pandya reflects on GT's loss to KKR, says it was 'a one-in-a-million defeat'</a>

Jitesh Sharma, Sam Curran, and Shahrukh Khan (9-ball 22)'s contributions took Punjab to a moderate 153 for 8 as GT were excellent on the field and in their usage of the DRS. Mohit returned with 2 for 18 on debut for his new franchise whereas other bowlers chipped in with a wicket each.

In reply, GT started off with a bang courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha. He has been in attacking mode in the powerplays and played his part with a promising 19-ball 30 before Shubman Gill took the onus upon himself. Scoring his second fifty of the season, Gill held one end and kept the scoreboard moving without dropping much sweat.

Gill lost Sai Sudharshan and captain Hardik and eventually succumbed&nbsp;to pressure as the chase reached the final over. He was dismissed for 67 (49) but GT's trusted finishers Rahul Tewatia (5* off 2) and David Miller, unbeaten on 17 (18),&nbsp;negated Sam Curran's death-bowling threat to register a six-wicket win&nbsp;and a ball&nbsp;to spare.

By virtue of this win, GT are now in the third&nbsp;spot in the points table.&nbsp;

After a shocking loss at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), courtesy of Rinku Singh's unbelievable finish, defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) got back to winning ways as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six wickets in an intense run-chase of 154 at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Thursday evening (April 13).

After a shocking loss at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), courtesy of Rinku Singh's unbelievable finish, defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) got back to winning ways as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six wickets in an intense run-chase of 154 at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Thursday evening (April 13). With this win, GT now have six points from four games and occupy the third spot in the points table. Opting to bowl first, GT removed Yash Dayal from the playing XI -- who conceded 29 off the last over versus KKR -- as Mohit Sharma, India's 2015 ODI World Cup member, got the nod in the playing XI. Mohammed Shami struck early as he removed Prabhsimran Singh for duck (second on the trot). In-form skipper Shikhar Dhawan also departed for eight as PBKS was on the back foot in the powerplay overs. While Bhanuka Rajapaksa (20 off 26) and Matthew Short (36 off 24) added runs for the side, the duo couldn't make the most of their starts as GT bowlers remained disciplined and didn't allow Punjab to dictate terms. Also Read: IPL 2023: Hardik Pandya reflects on GT's loss to KKR, says it was 'a one-in-a-million defeat' Jitesh Sharma, Sam Curran, and Shahrukh Khan (9-ball 22)'s contributions took Punjab to a moderate 153 for 8 as GT were excellent on the field and in their usage of the DRS. Mohit returned with 2 for 18 on debut for his new franchise whereas other bowlers chipped in with a wicket each. In reply, GT started off with a bang courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha. He has been in attacking mode in the powerplays and played his part with a promising 19-ball 30 before Shubman Gill took the onus upon himself. Scoring his second fifty of the season, Gill held one end and kept the scoreboard moving without dropping much sweat. Gill lost Sai Sudharshan and captain Hardik and eventually succumbed to pressure as the chase reached the final over. He was dismissed for 67 (49) but GT's trusted finishers Rahul Tewatia (5* off 2) and David Miller, unbeaten on 17 (18), negated Sam Curran's death-bowling threat to register a six-wicket win and a ball to spare. By virtue of this win, GT are now in the third spot in the points table.

IPL 2023: Gujarat Titans get back to winning ways, beat Punjab Kings by 6 wickets in tense chase

Former India coach Ravi Shastri predicted that Gujarat Titans opener Shubman Gill might surpass Virat Kohli's mark of 973 runs scored in a single Indian Premier League season.

Kohli achieved the milestone in IPL 2016, where he slammed 973 runs at an average of 81.08. Gill completed 2,000 runs in IPL on Sunday. He accomplished this milestone during his side's match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In the match, Shubman played a handy knock of 39 runs in 31 balls. His knock consisted of five boundaries. His runs came at a strike rate of 125.81. In his 77 matches in IPL career, which has seen him represent Gujarat and formerly Kolkata Knight Riders, Gill has scored 2,016 runs at an average of 32.52. He has scored his runs at a strike rate of 126.24. Fifteen half-centuries have come out of his bat in IPL with the best score of 96.

Gill's best season came last year when he played a key role in Gujarat Titans' triumph in their maiden IPL 2022 season. Last season, he scored 483 runs in 16 innings at an average of 34.50. He scored four half-centuries last season, with the best score of 96.

"If we look at what's happened till now, then the two left-handers, Tilak Varma and Sudharshan, one is 20 years old, the other is 21, they have been a lot of fun to watch. Because they seem to have a future, their temperament and maturity which we can see shows the potential they have to be good players," Shastri told Star Sports.

Tilak Varma was the find of the season for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2022. He scored 397 runs in 14 matches at an average of over 36 and SR of over 131 with two fifties and the best score of 61. In the first game of IPL 2023, he scored an unbeaten 84* off 46 balls against RCB in a losing cause, carrying the entire MI batting line-up on his back.

In 37 T20s, he has scored 1,159 runs at an average of 38.63 with a strike rate of over 139.30. His best score in the format is 84*. He has 10 half-centuries in the format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-truth-behind-csk-bowler-tushar-deshpandes-rohit-sharmas-wicket-is-easy-remark-581275">FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark</a>

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also gave his opinion on who has impressed him the most in the IPL 2023.

"One is definitely Tilak Varma, he has impressed us a lot. He batted well last year and has performed this year as well. Even his attitude is very good. He looks like he can be a leader in the future. And the second is Jurel, the way Jurel has batted from his first innings, I couldn't even imagine the quality of his shots under pressure. So that is one boy who has impressed, even though it's still in the early stages, but these are promising signs."

Shastri was asked what was special about Vijay Shankar that got him selected for the 2019 ICC Men's ODI World Cup.

He said the player was picked up both for his bowling and batting abilities.

"In my opinion, the selectors thinking was such that, just like his innings that we have seen in this year's IPL, that kind of innings plus his bowling is a big factor in his getting selected. When he got injured during the 2019 World Cup, he got a fracture on his toe and was out for a long time. He has the talent, he has worked hard to get back to his best, and you know, at that time even Hardik was facing a lot of injury issues, so India was looking for a player who could replace Hardik and give at least two or three overs to the team and bat well, so it was always to keep Shankar ready in case Hardik got injured so that there was a quality replacement."

Shastri also spoke on who may break Virat Kohli's record for the most runs in a single season.

Shastri said it has to be an opening batsman, because only then will he get many opportunities to score runs.

"I feel it is Subhman Gill because he is in good form and also because he plays top of the order. So he will get a good number of opportunities to score runs. The pitches are good, so if he can score 80-100 runs consecutively in two or three innings, then at that point in time only he will already have 300-400 runs. According to me, it is very difficult to break the record, because 900 plus runs is huge but one thing is opening batsmen will get two extra matches and two extra innings, so opening batsmen can only break this record if it is possible."

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Former India coach Ravi Shastri predicted that Gujarat Titans opener Shubman Gill might surpass Virat Kohli's mark of 973 runs scored in a single Indian Premier League season.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri predicted that Gujarat Titans opener Shubman Gill might surpass Virat Kohli's mark of 973 runs scored in a single Indian Premier League season. Kohli achieved the milestone in IPL 2016, where he slammed 973 runs at an average of 81.08. Gill completed 2,000 runs in IPL on Sunday. He accomplished this milestone during his side's match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In the match, Shubman played a handy knock of 39 runs in 31 balls. His knock consisted of five boundaries. His runs came at a strike rate of 125.81. In his 77 matches in IPL career, which has seen him represent Gujarat and formerly Kolkata Knight Riders, Gill has scored 2,016 runs at an average of 32.52. He has scored his runs at a strike rate of 126.24. Fifteen half-centuries have come out of his bat in IPL with the best score of 96. Gill's best season came last year when he played a key role in Gujarat Titans' triumph in their maiden IPL 2022 season. Last season, he scored 483 runs in 16 innings at an average of 34.50. He scored four half-centuries last season, with the best score of 96. "If we look at what's happened till now, then the two left-handers, Tilak Varma and Sudharshan, one is 20 years old, the other is 21, they have been a lot of fun to watch. Because they seem to have a future, their temperament and maturity which we can see shows the potential they have to be good players," Shastri told Star Sports. Tilak Varma was the find of the season for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2022. He scored 397 runs in 14 matches at an average of over 36 and SR of over 131 with two fifties and the best score of 61. In the first game of IPL 2023, he scored an unbeaten 84* off 46 balls against RCB in a losing cause, carrying the entire MI batting line-up on his back. In 37 T20s, he has scored 1,159 runs at an average of 38.63 with a strike rate of over 139.30. His best score in the format is 84*. He has 10 half-centuries in the format. ALSO READ | FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also gave his opinion on who has impressed him the most in the IPL 2023. "One is definitely Tilak Varma, he has impressed us a lot. He batted well last year and has performed this year as well. Even his attitude is very good. He looks like he can be a leader in the future. And the second is Jurel, the way Jurel has batted from his first innings, I couldn't even imagine the quality of his shots under pressure. So that is one boy who has impressed, even though it's still in the early stages, but these are promising signs." Shastri was asked what was special about Vijay Shankar that got him selected for the 2019 ICC Men's ODI World Cup. He said the player was picked up both for his bowling and batting abilities. "In my opinion, the selectors thinking was such that, just like his innings that we have seen in this year's IPL, that kind of innings plus his bowling is a big factor in his getting selected. When he got injured during the 2019 World Cup, he got a fracture on his toe and was out for a long time. He has the talent, he has worked hard to get back to his best, and you know, at that time even Hardik was facing a lot of injury issues, so India was looking for a player who could replace Hardik and give at least two or three overs to the team and bat well, so it was always to keep Shankar ready in case Hardik got injured so that there was a quality replacement." Shastri also spoke on who may break Virat Kohli's record for the most runs in a single season. Shastri said it has to be an opening batsman, because only then will he get many opportunities to score runs. "I feel it is Subhman Gill because he is in good form and also because he plays top of the order. So he will get a good number of opportunities to score runs. The pitches are good, so if he can score 80-100 runs consecutively in two or three innings, then at that point in time only he will already have 300-400 runs. According to me, it is very difficult to break the record, because 900 plus runs is huge but one thing is opening batsmen will get two extra matches and two extra innings, so opening batsmen can only break this record if it is possible." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Ravi Shastri picks THIS batter to break Virat's long-standing run record, says 'he is in good form'

Virat Kohli has so far scored two fifties in three games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2023. The three-time runners-up will rely on Kohli throughout the season as they look to end their IPL-trophy drought this time around in IPL 2023. In 2016 edition, the then RCB skipper Kohli was in sublime form as he ended with a whopping 973 runs in 16 games -- including four centuries - as he took his franchise to the final, where they lost to the eventual champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

Kohli's 973 runs remains the most scored by a batter in any IPL season. Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri named India's young star Shubman Gill, who represents the one-time winners Gujarat Titans (GT), to break Kohli's massive IPL record.&nbsp;

Speaking during a Q/A session on&nbsp;Star Sports, Shastri said, "He has to be an opening batsman, because only then will he get many opportunities to score runs. I feel it is Shubman Gill because he is in good form and also because he plays at the top of the order. So he will get a good number of opportunities to score runs."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-42-to-50-after-babar-doull-slams-virat-kohli-for-being-concerned-about-personal-milestone-581298">'From 42 to 50...' - After Babar, Doull slams Virat Kohli for being 'concerned about personal milestone'</a>

Shastri further opined, "The pitches are good, so if he can score 80-100 runs consecutively in two or three innings, then at that point only he will already have 300-400 runs.

"According to me, it is very difficult to break the record, because 900-plus runs is huge. But one thing is opening batsmen will get two extra matches and two extra innings, so they can only break this record if it is possible", he&nbsp;added.

Gill has so far scored 116 runs, including a fifty, at a strike rate of 145. Meanwhile, Gill-starrer GT have won twice and lost a game after three encounters as they occupy the fourth spot in the points table.&nbsp;

Will in-form Gill break Kohli's record in IPL 2023 or the upcoming seasons? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli has so far scored two fifties in three games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2023. The three-time runners-up will rely on Kohli throughout the season as they look to end their IPL-trophy drought this time around in IPL 2023.

Virat Kohli has so far scored two fifties in three games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2023. The three-time runners-up will rely on Kohli throughout the season as they look to end their IPL-trophy drought this time around in IPL 2023. In 2016 edition, the then RCB skipper Kohli was in sublime form as he ended with a whopping 973 runs in 16 games -- including four centuries - as he took his franchise to the final, where they lost to the eventual champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Kohli's 973 runs remains the most scored by a batter in any IPL season. Recently, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri named India's young star Shubman Gill, who represents the one-time winners Gujarat Titans (GT), to break Kohli's massive IPL record. Speaking during a Q/A session on Star Sports, Shastri said, "He has to be an opening batsman, because only then will he get many opportunities to score runs. I feel it is Shubman Gill because he is in good form and also because he plays at the top of the order. So he will get a good number of opportunities to score runs." Also Read: 'From 42 to 50...' - After Babar, Doull slams Virat Kohli for being 'concerned about personal milestone' Shastri further opined, "The pitches are good, so if he can score 80-100 runs consecutively in two or three innings, then at that point only he will already have 300-400 runs. "According to me, it is very difficult to break the record, because 900-plus runs is huge. But one thing is opening batsmen will get two extra matches and two extra innings, so they can only break this record if it is possible", he added. Gill has so far scored 116 runs, including a fifty, at a strike rate of 145. Meanwhile, Gill-starrer GT have won twice and lost a game after three encounters as they occupy the fourth spot in the points table. Will in-form Gill break Kohli's record in IPL 2023 or the upcoming seasons? Only time will tell...

Not Dhawan or Buttler! Shastri names THIS Indian youngster who can break Kohli's 973-run IPL record

Star Indian batters Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have made gains in ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings released on Wednesday. While Shubman climbed one spot to reach a career-best fourth position in the rankings, Virat also rose by one spot to gain the sixth position in the rankings. Gill is India's highest-ranked batter in ODIs currently. Another top-10 batter from India in the ranking is skipper Rohit Sharma, who has managed to hold on to his eighth spot in the rankings.

The three leading players of the team have displayed excellent form in ODIs this year so far. In nine ODIs this year, Gill has scored 624 runs at an average of 78. He has scored three centuries and one fifty this year, with the best score of 208 against New Zealand. His performances in the most recent series against Australia were ordinary, as he scored only 20, zero and thirty seven in three innings. He is the highest run-scorer in ODIs this year.

Virat has scored 427 runs at an average of 53.37. He has scored two centuries and one fifty this year in nine innings, with the best score of 166. He is the fourth-highest run-scorer in ODIs this year. His most recent ODI outings against Australia saw him score 4, 31 and 54 in three innings.

Rohit has scored 371 runs in eight innings at an average of 46.37. He has scored one century and two fifties this year with the best score of 101. His recent outings in Australia saw him register scores of 13 and 30 in two innings.

Pacer Mohammed Siraj is the only Indian bowler in ODI rankings, as he managed to hold onto his third position.

Meanwhile, New Zealand's strong white-ball form against Sri Lanka has been rewarded with a host of their key performers making significant gains in the latest ICC Men's Player Rankings.

The Black Caps registered an impressive 2-0 victory over the Asian side during the recent ODI component of their series and key pacer Matt Henry was one of their strongest performers with an eye-catching haul of 3/14 in the final game in Hamilton.

Henry's solid showing helped him rise five places to fifth overall on the list for ODI bowlers, with the 31-year-old now just 29 rating points behind Australia's Pat Cummins as the No.1 ranked 50-over bowler in the world.

Teammate Daryl Mitchell made a five-spot gain to equal 21st on the T20I batter rankings following his quickfire knock of 66 in the first match of the T20I series against Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka has been more competitive in the T20I matches in New Zealand and even pinched a dramatic Super Over victory over the Black Caps in the opening match of that series and a pair of their players have been rewarded.

Attacking middle-order dasher Charith Asalanka has moved up 12 places to 23rd on the list for T20I batters. He had scored a quickfire 67 of 41 balls, with two fours and six sixes in the first T20I. Also, pacer Maheesh Theekshana jumped three places to 10th on the bowler charts after an economical showing of 1/22 from four overs during that first match of the series in Auckland.

There were some new career bests in the ODI batter rankings following the latest update, with Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus moving up 10 places to 26th overall after an excellent effort with the bat during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier Play-off on home soil.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-unbeliveable-david-warner-survives-snorter-from-shami-in-dc-vs-gt-579258">IPL 2023: UNBELIEVABLE! David Warner survives snorter from Shami in DC vs GT - WATCH</a>

Erasmus collected 279 runs from five matches to help Namibia to three victories, but his efforts proved in vain as the emerging cricketing nation fell just short of progressing through to the Qualifier tournament in Zimbabwe in the middle of the year.

Consistent South Africa right-hander Aiden Markram also brought up a new career-high rating in the ODI batter rankings jumping 13 places to 41st overall following his brilliant 175 in the third and final game of the Proteas' three-match series against the Netherlands in Johannesburg.

Quinton de Kock dropped four places to seventh inside the top 10 for ODI batters, with Pakistan captain Babar Azam maintaining his healthy lead at the top of the category from Rassie van der Dussen and teammate Imam-ul-Haq.

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Star Indian batters Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have made gains in ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings released on Wednesday. While Shubman climbed one spot to reach a career-best fourth position in the rankings, Virat also rose by one spot to gain the sixth position in the rankings.

Star Indian batters Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have made gains in ICC Men's ODI Player Rankings released on Wednesday. While Shubman climbed one spot to reach a career-best fourth position in the rankings, Virat also rose by one spot to gain the sixth position in the rankings. Gill is India's highest-ranked batter in ODIs currently. Another top-10 batter from India in the ranking is skipper Rohit Sharma, who has managed to hold on to his eighth spot in the rankings. The three leading players of the team have displayed excellent form in ODIs this year so far. In nine ODIs this year, Gill has scored 624 runs at an average of 78. He has scored three centuries and one fifty this year, with the best score of 208 against New Zealand. His performances in the most recent series against Australia were ordinary, as he scored only 20, zero and thirty seven in three innings. He is the highest run-scorer in ODIs this year. Virat has scored 427 runs at an average of 53.37. He has scored two centuries and one fifty this year in nine innings, with the best score of 166. He is the fourth-highest run-scorer in ODIs this year. His most recent ODI outings against Australia saw him score 4, 31 and 54 in three innings. Rohit has scored 371 runs in eight innings at an average of 46.37. He has scored one century and two fifties this year with the best score of 101. His recent outings in Australia saw him register scores of 13 and 30 in two innings. Pacer Mohammed Siraj is the only Indian bowler in ODI rankings, as he managed to hold onto his third position. Meanwhile, New Zealand's strong white-ball form against Sri Lanka has been rewarded with a host of their key performers making significant gains in the latest ICC Men's Player Rankings. The Black Caps registered an impressive 2-0 victory over the Asian side during the recent ODI component of their series and key pacer Matt Henry was one of their strongest performers with an eye-catching haul of 3/14 in the final game in Hamilton. Henry's solid showing helped him rise five places to fifth overall on the list for ODI bowlers, with the 31-year-old now just 29 rating points behind Australia's Pat Cummins as the No.1 ranked 50-over bowler in the world. Teammate Daryl Mitchell made a five-spot gain to equal 21st on the T20I batter rankings following his quickfire knock of 66 in the first match of the T20I series against Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has been more competitive in the T20I matches in New Zealand and even pinched a dramatic Super Over victory over the Black Caps in the opening match of that series and a pair of their players have been rewarded. Attacking middle-order dasher Charith Asalanka has moved up 12 places to 23rd on the list for T20I batters. He had scored a quickfire 67 of 41 balls, with two fours and six sixes in the first T20I. Also, pacer Maheesh Theekshana jumped three places to 10th on the bowler charts after an economical showing of 1/22 from four overs during that first match of the series in Auckland. There were some new career bests in the ODI batter rankings following the latest update, with Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus moving up 10 places to 26th overall after an excellent effort with the bat during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier Play-off on home soil. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: UNBELIEVABLE! David Warner survives snorter from Shami in DC vs GT - WATCH Erasmus collected 279 runs from five matches to help Namibia to three victories, but his efforts proved in vain as the emerging cricketing nation fell just short of progressing through to the Qualifier tournament in Zimbabwe in the middle of the year. Consistent South Africa right-hander Aiden Markram also brought up a new career-high rating in the ODI batter rankings jumping 13 places to 41st overall following his brilliant 175 in the third and final game of the Proteas' three-match series against the Netherlands in Johannesburg. Quinton de Kock dropped four places to seventh inside the top 10 for ODI batters, with Pakistan captain Babar Azam maintaining his healthy lead at the top of the category from Rassie van der Dussen and teammate Imam-ul-Haq. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ICC Rankings: Shubman Gill achieves career-best fourth spot; Virat Kohli also in top 10

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia. Thus, he has joined skipper Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah in the top-grade contract (salary of INR 70 million/7 crore).

KL Rahul, who got removed as the white-ball vice-captain and was dropped for the final two Tests versus Australia, has been demoted to Grade B. As many as five players have been included in Grade A (INR 50 million/5 crore) whereas there are six players in Grade B and 11 in Grade C.

Check out the full list:

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-wi-quinton-de-kock-hits-maiden-t20i-hundred-as-proteas-complete-highest-t20i-run-chase-in-centurion-576011">SA vs WI: Quinton de Kock hits maiden T20I hundred as Proteas complete highest T20I run chase in Centurion</a>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>PLAYER</td>
			<td>GRADE</td>
			<td>SALARY (in INR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rohit Sharma</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Jasprit Bumrah</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ravindra Jadeja</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hardik Pandya</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>R Ashwin</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rishabh Pant</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Axar Patel</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Md Shami</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cheteshwar Pujara</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>KL Rahul</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shreyas Iyer</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Md Siraj</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Suryakumar Yadav</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shubman Gill</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shikhar Dhawan</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shardul Thakur</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Yuzvendra Chahal</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Umesh Yadav</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sanju Samson</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ishan Kishan</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Deepak Hooda</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kuldeep Yadav</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>KS Bharat</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Washington Sundar</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arshdeep Singh</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Shikhar Dhawan, who has been dropped from the ODI setup, is one of the biggest names in Grade C. He has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Rohit's opening partner in the 50-over setup whereas he was out of the T20I line-up in late 2021 itself. Moreover, star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's name was missing from the entire list.

All the star Indian cricketers are now gearing up for IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia.

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia. Thus, he has joined skipper Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah in the top-grade contract (salary of INR 70 million/7 crore). KL Rahul, who got removed as the white-ball vice-captain and was dropped for the final two Tests versus Australia, has been demoted to Grade B. As many as five players have been included in Grade A (INR 50 million/5 crore) whereas there are six players in Grade B and 11 in Grade C. Check out the full list: Also Read: SA vs WI: Quinton de Kock hits maiden T20I hundred as Proteas complete highest T20I run chase in Centurion PLAYER GRADE SALARY (in INR) Rohit Sharma A+ 70 million Virat Kohli A+ 70 million Jasprit Bumrah A+ 70 million Ravindra Jadeja A+ 70 million Hardik Pandya A 50 million R Ashwin A 50 million Rishabh Pant A 50 million Axar Patel A 50 million Md Shami A 50 million Cheteshwar Pujara B 30 million KL Rahul B 30 million Shreyas Iyer B 30 million Md Siraj B 30 million Suryakumar Yadav B 30 million Shubman Gill B 30 million Shikhar Dhawan C 10 million Shardul Thakur C 10 million Yuzvendra Chahal C 10 million Umesh Yadav C 10 million Sanju Samson C 10 million Ishan Kishan C 10 million Deepak Hooda C 10 million Kuldeep Yadav C 10 million KS Bharat C 10 million Washington Sundar C 10 million Arshdeep Singh C 10 million Shikhar Dhawan, who has been dropped from the ODI setup, is one of the biggest names in Grade C. He has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Rohit's opening partner in the 50-over setup whereas he was out of the T20I line-up in late 2021 itself. Moreover, star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's name was missing from the entire list. All the star Indian cricketers are now gearing up for IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

BCCI central contracts: Ravindra Jadeja gets a PROMOTION, KL Rahul DEMOTED - Check full list

Out-of-favour India opener Shikhar Dhawan says he would have preferred Shubman Gill over him if he were to select the Indian team for the 50-over World Cup later this year. The veteran of 167 ODIs, Dhawan, said given how well young Gill is performing across two formats at this moment, picking him for the mega event will be in best interest for the Indian team.

Having made his international debut a couple of years back, Gill became a sure-starter in Tests and ODIs following his latest exploits across both formats in the past six months. After scoring his maiden Test hundred against Bangladesh during the away series in December 2022, Gill became the fifth Indian batter to notch a double ton in ODIs against New Zealand in Hyderabad early this year. He then scored two more hundreds in the same series, one in the final ODI and one in the T20I series – his first in that format.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-gujarat-titans-pacer-shivam-mavi-thinks-hardik-pandya-is-a-cool-captain-know-why-575861">IPL 2023: Gujarat Titans pacer Shivam Mavi thinks Hardik Pandya is a 'cool captain' | Know Why</a>

Speaking during an exclusive chat with Aaj Tak, Dhawan said though he is still eyeing a place in the India team for the World Cup later this year, he is aware of how well Shubman Gill is playing, adding the youngster deserves to get picked ahead of him.

“I feel the way Shubman is (playing). Like he was playing two formats and performing well in Tests and T20s. He was playing more matches in the international circuit and I wasn't... If I were the selector then definitely would have given the chance to Shubman. Would have selected Shubman over Shikhar," Dhawan told Aaj Tak.

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Shikar Dhawan On Shubman Gill❤️‍🔥 <a href="https://t.co/LVN6MoSdb9">pic.twitter.com/LVN6MoSdb9</a>
— Radhe krishna (@Viratkohli1230) <a href="https://twitter.com/Viratkohli1230/status/1639659613942423553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Elaborating further on what he thinks about his future in the Indian team, Dhawan revealed Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid did support him after taking over the reins and backed him to fight for his place in the XI.

“When Rohit took over the captaincy, he along with Rahul Dravid backed me enough. They told me they wanted me to focus on my cricket and that my vision should be the next World Cup,” Dhawan added.

Dhawan added the past year was good for him as he was consistent, but when his form dropped, Gill grabbed the chance with both hands and made the most of it. He further admitted that after Ishan Kishan made headlines by scoring his maiden double century in ODIs – the quickest among all, Dhawan feared for his place in the XI.

"2022 was very good for me, I was consistent in ODIs. But there is this young guy who has been doing well in two formats, and when my form dipped in a series or two then they gave a chance to Shubman and he has lived up to their expectation. "We are used to such situation. When Ishan Kishan slammed a double century against Bangladesh, then, for a moment, I thought I could be out of the team," said Dhawan.

The left-handed batter will be seen playing for Punjab Kings in the upcoming edition of IPL 2023, whereas, Gill will open for Gujarat Titans.

Out-of-favour India opener Shikhar Dhawan says he would have preferred Shubman Gill over him if he were to select the Indian team for the 50-over World Cup later this year.

Out-of-favour India opener Shikhar Dhawan says he would have preferred Shubman Gill over him if he were to select the Indian team for the 50-over World Cup later this year. The veteran of 167 ODIs, Dhawan, said given how well young Gill is performing across two formats at this moment, picking him for the mega event will be in best interest for the Indian team. Having made his international debut a couple of years back, Gill became a sure-starter in Tests and ODIs following his latest exploits across both formats in the past six months. After scoring his maiden Test hundred against Bangladesh during the away series in December 2022, Gill became the fifth Indian batter to notch a double ton in ODIs against New Zealand in Hyderabad early this year. He then scored two more hundreds in the same series, one in the final ODI and one in the T20I series – his first in that format. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Gujarat Titans pacer Shivam Mavi thinks Hardik Pandya is a 'cool captain' | Know Why Speaking during an exclusive chat with Aaj Tak, Dhawan said though he is still eyeing a place in the India team for the World Cup later this year, he is aware of how well Shubman Gill is playing, adding the youngster deserves to get picked ahead of him. “I feel the way Shubman is (playing). Like he was playing two formats and performing well in Tests and T20s. He was playing more matches in the international circuit and I wasn't... If I were the selector then definitely would have given the chance to Shubman. Would have selected Shubman over Shikhar," Dhawan told Aaj Tak. Shikar Dhawan On Shubman Gill❤️‍🔥 pic.twitter.com/LVN6MoSdb9 — Radhe krishna (@Viratkohli1230) March 25, 2023 × Elaborating further on what he thinks about his future in the Indian team, Dhawan revealed Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid did support him after taking over the reins and backed him to fight for his place in the XI. “When Rohit took over the captaincy, he along with Rahul Dravid backed me enough. They told me they wanted me to focus on my cricket and that my vision should be the next World Cup,” Dhawan added. Dhawan added the past year was good for him as he was consistent, but when his form dropped, Gill grabbed the chance with both hands and made the most of it. He further admitted that after Ishan Kishan made headlines by scoring his maiden double century in ODIs – the quickest among all, Dhawan feared for his place in the XI. "2022 was very good for me, I was consistent in ODIs. But there is this young guy who has been doing well in two formats, and when my form dipped in a series or two then they gave a chance to Shubman and he has lived up to their expectation. "We are used to such situation. When Ishan Kishan slammed a double century against Bangladesh, then, for a moment, I thought I could be out of the team," said Dhawan. The left-handed batter will be seen playing for Punjab Kings in the upcoming edition of IPL 2023, whereas, Gill will open for Gujarat Titans.

Shubman Gill over me on current form, says out-of-favour India opener as 50-over World Cup looms

With the three-match ODI series levelled at 1-1, India and Australia have locked horns in the series finale at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Opting to bat first, Steve Smith-led Australia were off to a flying start courtesy of in-form openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh before Hardik Pandya's three quick strikes brought India back into the game.

Hardik removed Australia's top three and could have got rid of Head a bit earlier as well had Shubman Gill not dropped a catch off the all-rounder's bowling. The incident took place in the 11th over when Head pulled a short-pitched delivery towards deep square leg with Gill stationed at the position. He went for the catch and timed his dive but could not hold on to the ball (his third drop of the series) and it went to the boundary as well. Gill's efforts didn't please captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Hardik. Here's how the duo reacted:

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashwin-lauds-kl-rahul-for-doing-very-difficult-role-with-ease-compares-him-with-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-574649">Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh</a>

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To Gill's relief, Head fell in the same over as Kuldeeo Yadav took a sharp catch at the deep. Hardik also removed well-set Marsh (47) and accounted for stand-in captain Smith's wicket 0 (3). Gill later redeemed himself with a catch of Marcus Stoinis, who was looking dangerous at 25 (26).

Australia will hope to post anything over 265-270 to challenge Team India at the Chepauk stadium. The series is interestingly poised at 1-1 after Australia won the second and penultimate game&nbsp;by ten wickets. The home side won the series opener, in Mumbai, by five wickets.

With the three-match ODI series levelled at 1-1, India and Australia have locked horns in the series finale at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22).

With the three-match ODI series levelled at 1-1, India and Australia have locked horns in the series finale at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Opting to bat first, Steve Smith-led Australia were off to a flying start courtesy of in-form openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh before Hardik Pandya's three quick strikes brought India back into the game. Hardik removed Australia's top three and could have got rid of Head a bit earlier as well had Shubman Gill not dropped a catch off the all-rounder's bowling. The incident took place in the 11th over when Head pulled a short-pitched delivery towards deep square leg with Gill stationed at the position. He went for the catch and timed his dive but could not hold on to the ball (his third drop of the series) and it went to the boundary as well. Gill's efforts didn't please captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Hardik. Here's how the duo reacted: Also Read: Ashwin lauds KL Rahul for 'doing very difficult role with ease', compares him with MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh pic.twitter.com/W9saXsTI8j — Guess Karo (@KuchNahiUkhada) March 22, 2023 × To Gill's relief, Head fell in the same over as Kuldeeo Yadav took a sharp catch at the deep. Hardik also removed well-set Marsh (47) and accounted for stand-in captain Smith's wicket 0 (3). Gill later redeemed himself with a catch of Marcus Stoinis, who was looking dangerous at 25 (26). Australia will hope to post anything over 265-270 to challenge Team India at the Chepauk stadium. The series is interestingly poised at 1-1 after Australia won the second and penultimate game by ten wickets. The home side won the series opener, in Mumbai, by five wickets.

WATCH: Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya unimpressed as Shubman Gill drops a catch in Ind-Aus Chennai ODI

India is gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off on March 17 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In Rohit Sharma's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will lead the side in the series opener. While the ODI squad sees the return of some senior players, such as Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, etc., many superstars are not part of the line-up.

Among the younger lot, Prithvi Shaw remains out of contention. He returned to the Indian side for the home New Zealand T20Is, in February, but didn't get a single game. He has been in rollicking form in the domestic circuit. He scored a majestic 379 in Ranji Trophy. He even ended as the second-highest run-getter in 2022/23 Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, with 332 runs including a ton and a fifty. However, he hasn't managed to seal a spot in the Indian team across formats.

Recently, India's retired cricketer Murali Vijay opined on Shaw's omission. The former Test opener is clueless as to why the talented young batter is not playing for Team India at present.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-had-packed-our-suitcases-ex-ind-player-shares-unheard-tale-from-ganguly-cos-2001-kolkata-test-win-572156">'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia</a>

On being asked about the next Indian batting superstar, Vijay told Hindustan Times, "There are 15 superstars playing for India. If you are playing for India, you are already a superstar for me. But skill-wise, I really love Shubman Gill and Prithvi Shaw. They are top players. Rishabh Pant has done a great job for Indian cricket as well. I wish him a speedy recovery. Shreyas Iyer is doing well."

He&nbsp;then opined on Shaw's absence and said, "I don't know why he (Shaw) is not playing now. You should ask the team management."

Shaw is gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will represent the David Warner-led Delhi Capitals (DC).

India is gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off on March 17 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In Rohit Sharma's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will lead the side in the series opener.

India is gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off on March 17 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. In Rohit Sharma's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya will lead the side in the series opener. While the ODI squad sees the return of some senior players, such as Ravindra Jadeja, KL Rahul, etc., many superstars are not part of the line-up. Among the younger lot, Prithvi Shaw remains out of contention. He returned to the Indian side for the home New Zealand T20Is, in February, but didn't get a single game. He has been in rollicking form in the domestic circuit. He scored a majestic 379 in Ranji Trophy. He even ended as the second-highest run-getter in 2022/23 Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, with 332 runs including a ton and a fifty. However, he hasn't managed to seal a spot in the Indian team across formats. Recently, India's retired cricketer Murali Vijay opined on Shaw's omission. The former Test opener is clueless as to why the talented young batter is not playing for Team India at present. Also read: 'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia On being asked about the next Indian batting superstar, Vijay told Hindustan Times, "There are 15 superstars playing for India. If you are playing for India, you are already a superstar for me. But skill-wise, I really love Shubman Gill and Prithvi Shaw. They are top players. Rishabh Pant has done a great job for Indian cricket as well. I wish him a speedy recovery. Shreyas Iyer is doing well." He then opined on Shaw's absence and said, "I don't know why he (Shaw) is not playing now. You should ask the team management." Shaw is gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will represent the David Warner-led Delhi Capitals (DC).

'Don't know why he is not playing': Murali Vijay clueless about THIS star player's absence from Team India

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result.

There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag.

During a discussion on&nbsp;Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities."

&nbsp;"The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-does-become-kohlis-brutally-honest-reply-to-dravds-question-on-century-drought-watch-571912">'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH</a>

'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag'

Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths."

Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result. There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag. During a discussion on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities." "The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined. Also Read: 'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH 'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag' Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths." Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ind vs Aus: Sanjay Manjrekar lavishes huge praise on Shubman Gill, reveals 'another of his rare strengths'

India's head coach Rahul Dravid, after the Ahmedabad Test, which ended in a draw, lauded opening batsman Shubman Gill, saying he's a really exciting addition to the Indian team and that he's maturing with the time.

“It’s been a really exciting 4-5 months for Shubman, just sort of breaking into the T20I side and scoring a hundred. Doing the same in one-day cricket and then capping that off with good performances in the last two Test matches. So, obviously, for us, it is really exciting for a young player to come through. He’s maturing and has been around the team for the last few years,” said Dravid.

Gill scored a defining century in the just-drawn Ahmedabad Test, his second in the Tests, which laid a platform for next batsmen to eventually get India a lead of 91 runs in the first innings. Gill scored 128 runs off 235 balls, hitting 12 fours and a six.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-2023-twitterati-go-gaga-as-new-zealand-beat-sri-lanka-on-last-ball-by-2-wickets-taking-india-into-final-571574">WTC 2023: Twitterati go GAGA as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka on last ball by 2 wickets, taking India into final</a>

Dravid also praised Gill for taking responsibility and called it 'a great sign for us.'

“It’s just great to see him taking on that responsibility and putting in the kind of performances that are up to the standards that are in demand. It’s a great sign for us and long may it continue. He’s a lovely player, who works very hard on his skills,” the former India batsman added.

The Border-Gavaskar trophy&nbsp;was retained by India after winning the series&nbsp;2-1 as the players from both sides decided to end the game in a draw, shortly after Tea on Day 5. Both the teams, however, made it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final to be played in England in June.

Australia had booked their berth much earlier than India, who had to either win the Ahmedabad Test or hope for Sri Lanka to lose or draw their two-Test series against New Zealand, currently ongoing in New Zealand.

Much to India's fortune, New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in the first Test on Monday in what was one of the most thrilling Tests of all time as the Kiwis claimed a last-ball win.

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India's head coach Rahul Dravid, after the Ahmedabad Test, which ended in a draw, lauded opening batsman Shubman Gill, saying he's a really exciting addition to the Indian team and that he's maturing with the time.

India's head coach Rahul Dravid, after the Ahmedabad Test, which ended in a draw, lauded opening batsman Shubman Gill, saying he's a really exciting addition to the Indian team and that he's maturing with the time. “It’s been a really exciting 4-5 months for Shubman, just sort of breaking into the T20I side and scoring a hundred. Doing the same in one-day cricket and then capping that off with good performances in the last two Test matches. So, obviously, for us, it is really exciting for a young player to come through. He’s maturing and has been around the team for the last few years,” said Dravid. Gill scored a defining century in the just-drawn Ahmedabad Test, his second in the Tests, which laid a platform for next batsmen to eventually get India a lead of 91 runs in the first innings. Gill scored 128 runs off 235 balls, hitting 12 fours and a six. Also Read: WTC 2023: Twitterati go GAGA as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka on last ball by 2 wickets, taking India into final Dravid also praised Gill for taking responsibility and called it 'a great sign for us.' “It’s just great to see him taking on that responsibility and putting in the kind of performances that are up to the standards that are in demand. It’s a great sign for us and long may it continue. He’s a lovely player, who works very hard on his skills,” the former India batsman added. The Border-Gavaskar trophy was retained by India after winning the series 2-1 as the players from both sides decided to end the game in a draw, shortly after Tea on Day 5. Both the teams, however, made it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final to be played in England in June. Australia had booked their berth much earlier than India, who had to either win the Ahmedabad Test or hope for Sri Lanka to lose or draw their two-Test series against New Zealand, currently ongoing in New Zealand. Much to India's fortune, New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in the first Test on Monday in what was one of the most thrilling Tests of all time as the Kiwis claimed a last-ball win. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Long may it continue...': India coach Rahul Dravid praises THIS exciting young player after Australia Tests

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara also chipped in with handy knocks of 35 and 42, respectively.

India began day three with both openers taking down the lone Aussie seamer Mitchell Starc, who kept bowling defensive line and length early on. Barring odd boundaries around fine leg area, it was Rohit’s trade-mark pull shot off Starc that saw the crowd go crazy. However, for the nth time in this series, Rohit gave away his wicket to Matthew Kuhnemann on 35 after a good start.

Standing tall on the other hand, Gill continued playing his short-arm jabs and kept churning out fours off bad deliveries. His partner Cheteshwar Pujara played a typical Pujara innings, tiring the Aussies in the 40 degree heat at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daryl-mitchells-102-keep-new-zealand-alive-in-first-test-as-wtc-finals-spot-looms-over-for-india-sri-lanka-570870">Daryl Mitchell's 102 keeps New Zealand alive in first Test as WTC final's spot looms over for India, Sri Lanka</a>

In the meantime, Gill notched up his first Test hundred against Australia and soon after Todd Murphy trapped Pujara in front with a straight one on 42. Then walked down Virat Kohli who looked confident in turning tables around this time.

As both started to look comfortable out there, the experienced Nathan Lyon came up with a beauty of a delivery to dismiss Gill on 128 off 235 balls. Like Pujara, Gill was also found wanting while playing a wrong line as he was caught plumb in front.

For the second time in two Tests, Ravindra Jadeja was sent ahead of batter Shreyas Iyer, and this ploy worked well for India as both Kohli and Jadeja kept rotating strike, further frustrating the Aussies.

Before stumps on day three, Virat also brought up his first fifty, the first since January 2022, much to the delight of everyone present inside the stadium. India ended day three on 289 for three as they still train by 191 runs.

Meanwhile, for India to punch their ticket for the WTC final, they need to beat Australia in this Test or else hope for New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka in at least one match in the home series.

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series.

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara also chipped in with handy knocks of 35 and 42, respectively. India began day three with both openers taking down the lone Aussie seamer Mitchell Starc, who kept bowling defensive line and length early on. Barring odd boundaries around fine leg area, it was Rohit’s trade-mark pull shot off Starc that saw the crowd go crazy. However, for the nth time in this series, Rohit gave away his wicket to Matthew Kuhnemann on 35 after a good start. Standing tall on the other hand, Gill continued playing his short-arm jabs and kept churning out fours off bad deliveries. His partner Cheteshwar Pujara played a typical Pujara innings, tiring the Aussies in the 40 degree heat at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ: Daryl Mitchell's 102 keeps New Zealand alive in first Test as WTC final's spot looms over for India, Sri Lanka In the meantime, Gill notched up his first Test hundred against Australia and soon after Todd Murphy trapped Pujara in front with a straight one on 42. Then walked down Virat Kohli who looked confident in turning tables around this time. As both started to look comfortable out there, the experienced Nathan Lyon came up with a beauty of a delivery to dismiss Gill on 128 off 235 balls. Like Pujara, Gill was also found wanting while playing a wrong line as he was caught plumb in front. For the second time in two Tests, Ravindra Jadeja was sent ahead of batter Shreyas Iyer, and this ploy worked well for India as both Kohli and Jadeja kept rotating strike, further frustrating the Aussies. Before stumps on day three, Virat also brought up his first fifty, the first since January 2022, much to the delight of everyone present inside the stadium. India ended day three on 289 for three as they still train by 191 runs. Meanwhile, for India to punch their ticket for the WTC final, they need to beat Australia in this Test or else hope for New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka in at least one match in the home series.

IND vs AUS, 4th Test, day 3: India crawl back into Ahmedabad Test with Shubman Gill's maiden BGT century

The members of the Indian cricket team were seen painting the team camp as they celebrated Holi before their high-voltage clash against Australia. The members of the Indian team including Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and others were wrapped in colours as they were seen in the festive vibes. India will play Australia in the fourth Test match of the series and will be in search of a win to guarantee a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> wishes you all a very Happy Holi 🙌🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyHoli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyHoli</a> <a href="https://t.co/RdcVrNpfoB">pic.twitter.com/RdcVrNpfoB</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1633088721728991233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared pictures of the players on its Twitter handle as the players were seen in a party mood. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan and skipper Rohit Sharma were part of the celebration. Joining the players were members of backroom staff Vikram Rathour and Paras Mhambrey as they too were part of the celebrating Indian side. The players and the staff members were wrapped in colours before they take to the field on Thursday, March 9.

<h3>Shami to Return?</h3>

Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to the playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the WTC. Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup.

As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-pm-modi-to-attend-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-with-australian-pm-anthony-albanese-569592">IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese</a>

<h3>Team India Squad for Ahmedabad Test</h3>

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul, S Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, R Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohd Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat

The members of the Indian cricket team were seen painting the team camp as they celebrated Holi before their high-voltage clash against Australia. The members of the Indian team including Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and others were wrapped in colours as they were seen in the festive vibes.

The members of the Indian cricket team were seen painting the team camp as they celebrated Holi before their high-voltage clash against Australia. The members of the Indian team including Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav and others were wrapped in colours as they were seen in the festive vibes. India will play Australia in the fourth Test match of the series and will be in search of a win to guarantee a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. #TeamIndia wishes you all a very Happy Holi 🙌🙌#HappyHoli pic.twitter.com/RdcVrNpfoB — BCCI (@BCCI) March 7, 2023 × The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared pictures of the players on its Twitter handle as the players were seen in a party mood. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan and skipper Rohit Sharma were part of the celebration. Joining the players were members of backroom staff Vikram Rathour and Paras Mhambrey as they too were part of the celebrating Indian side. The players and the staff members were wrapped in colours before they take to the field on Thursday, March 9. Shami to Return? Ace Indian seamer Mohammed Shami is all set to return to the playing XI for the final Test against Australia in Ahmedabad as India eye a slot in the finals of the WTC. Shami was rested for the third Test in Indore as part of the workload management drill by the BCCI and team management for the key players who are in the scheme of things for the 50-over World Cup. As India currently lead the four-match series 2-1, having lost the previous match at the Holkar Stadium by nine wickets on a wicket that ICC rated ‘poor’, they will aim to win the final Test and qualify directly for the finals of WTC for the second time. As of now, only Australia has qualified for the WTC final, which is scheduled to take place at the Oval in London on June 7th. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese Team India Squad for Ahmedabad Test Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul, S Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, R Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohd Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit &amp; Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11.

With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-sl-explained-how-sri-lanka-can-play-spoilsport-to-indias-wtc-final-chances-569483">NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances</a>

"Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added.

Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match.

It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit & Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11. With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC. Also read: NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances "Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added. Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match. It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Ricky Ponting urges Team India to make a big change in batting order if they enter WTC final

Indian batters fell flat in both innings of the ongoing third and penultimate Test versus Australia, being held at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Winning the toss, on Wednesday (March 01), captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first but India only managed a paltry 109. In reply, Indian bowlers -- led by Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and R Ashwin -- managed to dismiss the Aussies for 197 but another poor show from the Indian batters, in their second essay, led to the home side bundling out for 163 at stumps on Day 2; setting up a mere 76-run target&nbsp;on Thursday (March 02).

With India starring on the brink of a heavy defeat in Indore, many former cricketers and fans have pointed fingers at Indian batters' flop showing in the entire Test. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. fell flat whereas only Cheteshwar Pujara managed a fighting 59 in the second innings. Talking about Shubman Gill -- who has been in splendid form in white-ball format -- came into the playing XI in place of out-of-form KL Rahul. All eyes were on him but Gill returned with scores of 21 and 5. In the second innings, he danced down the track, off Nathan Lyon (who ended with 8 for 64), but was completely outfoxed by the off-spinner and departed&nbsp;for 5. Many criticised Gill's ploy but former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed the youngster.

“See, the game plan is simple here. You can't survive on this pitch with defence. Pujara was using his feet throughout his innings. If you're thinking that you can wait out for a spell and score runs later, it won't work. Even if you're playing on 70-80 on this pitch, you can get out with just one odd delivery,” Harbhajan said on Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smith-pulls-off-a-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-2-of-indore-test-567669">WATCH: Steve Smith pulls off a stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 2 of Indore Test</a>

“You have to look out for the opportunity to score runs. You need to see where you can get a four. Shubman wanted to go for a six, and when you consider the pitch condition here, his approach was right because you can't defend on this pitch for long,” Harbhajan further added.

Day 3 will commence on Friday (March 03) with Rohit &amp; Co. defending 76 runs in the final innings. Steve Smith-led Australia are on the cusp of winning the game and keeping the four-match series alive with a 2-1 scoreline.

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&nbsp;

Indian batters fell flat in both innings of the ongoing third and penultimate Test versus Australia, being held at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Winning the toss, on Wednesday (March 01), captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first but India only managed a paltry 109.

Indian batters fell flat in both innings of the ongoing third and penultimate Test versus Australia, being held at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Winning the toss, on Wednesday (March 01), captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first but India only managed a paltry 109. In reply, Indian bowlers -- led by Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav and R Ashwin -- managed to dismiss the Aussies for 197 but another poor show from the Indian batters, in their second essay, led to the home side bundling out for 163 at stumps on Day 2; setting up a mere 76-run target on Thursday (March 02). With India starring on the brink of a heavy defeat in Indore, many former cricketers and fans have pointed fingers at Indian batters' flop showing in the entire Test. The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. fell flat whereas only Cheteshwar Pujara managed a fighting 59 in the second innings. Talking about Shubman Gill -- who has been in splendid form in white-ball format -- came into the playing XI in place of out-of-form KL Rahul. All eyes were on him but Gill returned with scores of 21 and 5. In the second innings, he danced down the track, off Nathan Lyon (who ended with 8 for 64), but was completely outfoxed by the off-spinner and departed for 5. Many criticised Gill's ploy but former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed the youngster. “See, the game plan is simple here. You can't survive on this pitch with defence. Pujara was using his feet throughout his innings. If you're thinking that you can wait out for a spell and score runs later, it won't work. Even if you're playing on 70-80 on this pitch, you can get out with just one odd delivery,” Harbhajan said on Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the match. Also Read: WATCH: Steve Smith pulls off a stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 2 of Indore Test “You have to look out for the opportunity to score runs. You need to see where you can get a four. Shubman wanted to go for a six, and when you consider the pitch condition here, his approach was right because you can't defend on this pitch for long,” Harbhajan further added. Day 3 will commence on Friday (March 03) with Rohit & Co. defending 76 runs in the final innings. Steve Smith-led Australia are on the cusp of winning the game and keeping the four-match series alive with a 2-1 scoreline. ×

'His approach was...': Harbhajan defends India's star batter despite poor outings in Indore Test vs Australia

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series. Rather confused with the management’s call to play struggling KL Rahul over Gill, the fans were left wondering for the answers. Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains and an ex-BCCI President recently spoke on this matter and said though there is no doubt that Gill is a tremendous batter and that’s why he’s playing all the formats, he still has to wait for his turn in Tests.

Having led teams across formats during his time, Ganguly understands the selection process better than many other; and on that he said when Gill’s time will come, he would get a lot of chances.

"I am sure when his time comes, he will also get a lot of opportunities," Ganguly said. "I think the selectors, the captain and the coach think of him and rate him very highly. That's why he is playing ODIs and T20Is, and he has performed as well,” Ganguly said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

"But at the present moment, perhaps message from team management is that he has to wait," Dada, as Ganguly’s fans used to call him, added.

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Warming the benches in the first two Tests with the team deciding to go ahead with KL Rahul as the opener, Gill will probably get into contention for the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore.

Meanwhile, in both Nagpur and Delhi, openers from both teams struggled to get going barring the India captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a match-winning hundred in the first innings of Nagpur Test. More so, that after Rohit, who is leading the runs chart in the Border-Gavaskar series, bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is second on the list. Other than them, the performer with the bat had been Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 77 in Nagpur.

Talking about playing spin on such tracks where matches got finished inside three days on both occasions, Ganguly said,

"These are very tough wickets. I saw in the first two Tests and it's not easy, boss," Ganguly said. "Playing Ashwin, Jadeja, Lyon and the new guy, Todd Murphy, it is never easy with odd ball turning square. There is unevenness, there is everything happening for spinners," Ganguly added.

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series.

Since the time Shubman Gill scored his maiden ODI double hundred against New Zealand early this year, he’s been everywhere except in the playing XI against Australia in the Test series. Rather confused with the management’s call to play struggling KL Rahul over Gill, the fans were left wondering for the answers. Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s greatest captains and an ex-BCCI President recently spoke on this matter and said though there is no doubt that Gill is a tremendous batter and that’s why he’s playing all the formats, he still has to wait for his turn in Tests. Having led teams across formats during his time, Ganguly understands the selection process better than many other; and on that he said when Gill’s time will come, he would get a lot of chances. "I am sure when his time comes, he will also get a lot of opportunities," Ganguly said. "I think the selectors, the captain and the coach think of him and rate him very highly. That's why he is playing ODIs and T20Is, and he has performed as well,” Ganguly said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "But at the present moment, perhaps message from team management is that he has to wait," Dada, as Ganguly’s fans used to call him, added. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Almost fit-enough Mitchell Starc raring to hit deck in Indore Test Warming the benches in the first two Tests with the team deciding to go ahead with KL Rahul as the opener, Gill will probably get into contention for the third Test that begins on March 1st in Indore. Meanwhile, in both Nagpur and Delhi, openers from both teams struggled to get going barring the India captain Rohit Sharma, who scored a match-winning hundred in the first innings of Nagpur Test. More so, that after Rohit, who is leading the runs chart in the Border-Gavaskar series, bowling all-rounder Axar Patel is second on the list. Other than them, the performer with the bat had been Ravindra Jadeja, who scored 77 in Nagpur. Talking about playing spin on such tracks where matches got finished inside three days on both occasions, Ganguly said, "These are very tough wickets. I saw in the first two Tests and it's not easy, boss," Ganguly said. "Playing Ashwin, Jadeja, Lyon and the new guy, Todd Murphy, it is never easy with odd ball turning square. There is unevenness, there is everything happening for spinners," Ganguly added.

'When his time will come I am sure he will get lots of opportunities,' says Sourav Ganguly on Shubman Gill

A lot has already been said and predicted about India's best XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain while addressing the presser spoke on the India's possible XI and even responded to negative criticism surrounding Test match wickets in India, especially the one prepared for the 1st Test - that is accused of being 'doctored' for getting unfair home advantage. Rohit also confirmed that it is only after assessing the surface and the conditions, a call on the final XI will be made.&nbsp;

Ahead of the first home Test&nbsp;in this season, Rohit said with almost everyone performing at the same time it becomes a tad difficult to pick and drop someone on the same grounds.&nbsp;

"It's going to be a tough one. We know a lot of guys are in good form, that's a good sign for the team. You have selection issues and it says a lot about the guys performing. That's quite crucial from the team's perspective, what we have to do is go to each venue, see the pitch and pick the best eleven. We have been doing that in the past and we will be doing that going forward," Rohit said at the presser in Nagpur.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/battle-of-aces-marnus-labuschagne-ready-for-round-2-against-ravichandran-ashwin-559944">Battle of Aces - Marnus Labuschagne ready for round 2 against Ravichandran Ashwin</a>

The veteran batter also revealed that the team selection will be done purely on the basis of conditions, and that everyone in the camp is made aware of this.&nbsp;

"Message to the boys is very clear. We are ready to play horses for courses. Whichever pitch, whoever we need, we have to bring them in. As simple as that. That is something we have spoken to the guys. We will have to assess conditions and see who are the right guys, so we are quite open with all options," the captain added.

Without spilling beans on what India's final XI would look like, Rohit heaped some praises on the talented duo of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, both of who are fighting for that one place in the middle order. Talking about the young Gill, Rohit said his recent exploits cannot be overlooked while Surya being such a rockstar in T20 format brings a lot to the table.&nbsp;

"They bring different things to the table for us. Gill we all know has been in supreme form in the last three to four months. Lots of big hundreds as well. Surya has shown in T20s what he is capable of and what sort of game he can bring to Test cricket as well. Both are quality options for us and we haven't yet decided who will play among the two guys, keep in mind all aspects of the game. I will not give you guys anything today," Rohit added.&nbsp;

Sharing his thoughts on the pitch critics - mainly from Australia, Rohit said the focus should remain on playing good cricket and not on how the pitch will play.

"I just feel, focus is on playing the game. Last series we played here, a lot was spoken about pitches and all 22 are quality cricketers and not bothered about how much it is turning, how much it is seaming and all that," Rohit said.

A lot has already been said and predicted about India's best XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain while addressing the presser spoke on the India's possible XI and even responded to negative criticism surrounding Test match wickets in India, especially the one prepared for the 1st Test - that is accused of being 'doctored' for getting unfair home advantage.

A lot has already been said and predicted about India's best XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain while addressing the presser spoke on the India's possible XI and even responded to negative criticism surrounding Test match wickets in India, especially the one prepared for the 1st Test - that is accused of being 'doctored' for getting unfair home advantage. Rohit also confirmed that it is only after assessing the surface and the conditions, a call on the final XI will be made. Ahead of the first home Test in this season, Rohit said with almost everyone performing at the same time it becomes a tad difficult to pick and drop someone on the same grounds. "It's going to be a tough one. We know a lot of guys are in good form, that's a good sign for the team. You have selection issues and it says a lot about the guys performing. That's quite crucial from the team's perspective, what we have to do is go to each venue, see the pitch and pick the best eleven. We have been doing that in the past and we will be doing that going forward," Rohit said at the presser in Nagpur. ALSO READ: Battle of Aces - Marnus Labuschagne ready for round 2 against Ravichandran Ashwin The veteran batter also revealed that the team selection will be done purely on the basis of conditions, and that everyone in the camp is made aware of this. "Message to the boys is very clear. We are ready to play horses for courses. Whichever pitch, whoever we need, we have to bring them in. As simple as that. That is something we have spoken to the guys. We will have to assess conditions and see who are the right guys, so we are quite open with all options," the captain added. Without spilling beans on what India's final XI would look like, Rohit heaped some praises on the talented duo of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, both of who are fighting for that one place in the middle order. Talking about the young Gill, Rohit said his recent exploits cannot be overlooked while Surya being such a rockstar in T20 format brings a lot to the table. "They bring different things to the table for us. Gill we all know has been in supreme form in the last three to four months. Lots of big hundreds as well. Surya has shown in T20s what he is capable of and what sort of game he can bring to Test cricket as well. Both are quality options for us and we haven't yet decided who will play among the two guys, keep in mind all aspects of the game. I will not give you guys anything today," Rohit added. Sharing his thoughts on the pitch critics - mainly from Australia, Rohit said the focus should remain on playing good cricket and not on how the pitch will play. "I just feel, focus is on playing the game. Last series we played here, a lot was spoken about pitches and all 22 are quality cricketers and not bothered about how much it is turning, how much it is seaming and all that," Rohit said.

'It's going to be tough one': Rohit Sharma on picking 'right guy for right game' during Australia series

In absence of injured Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, India will be forced to make a few changes to their XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. As KL Rahul has also returned to the setup, he is likely to take the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma, whereas, KS Bharat is likely to start ahead of Ishan Kishan for&nbsp;the keeper-batter role at least in the first two Tests. So that leaves team management with just one slot to fill - the number 5th, for which two players are competing for - Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill.&nbsp;

While there is a temptation to start with Suryakumar given his different array of shots and his ability to put the opposition under pressure, a former national selector Devang Gandhi feels the head coach Rahul Dravid could be prompted to play the man-in-form Shubman Gill at number five instead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-sanjay-manjrekar-predicts-this-star-player-to-make-the-cut-in-xi-for-nagpur-test-559684">IND vs AUS: Sanjay Manjrekar predicts THIS star player to make the cut in XI for Nagpur Test</a>

Gandhi said&nbsp;as the young right-hander had scored a double hundred for India 'A' against the Windies playing in the middle-order, and had also scored a hundred in the previous series against Bangladesh too, he could just get the nod ahead of Suryakumar. While talking to Times of India (TOI), the ex-national selector&nbsp;said,

“Shubman had a double hundred in West Indies playing for India ‘A’ in the middle-order. And in the last Test series that he played (against Bangladesh), he got a century. The fact that Gill plays spin as good as anybody else in the Indian team should also work in his favour, at least in the first Test," Gandhi said.

On the other hand, India is also expected to play three spinners on a dry Nagpur track, and with Jadeja and Ashwin sure to start, it will be a toss-up between Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. While a few feel the Chinaman, Kuldeep deserves an extended run in this format considering his recent exploits across formats, Gandhi has a different view to it. He said India must go ahead with Axar Patel as he has&nbsp;proved himself on these pitches and can bat too, giving India an edge over their opposition.&nbsp;

“We should not forget that Axar, who is a finger spinner similar to Jadeja, has been phenomenal on dry Indian tracks. He can keep an end tight. Add to that his batting ability, which can be crucial on a pitch like this,” Gandhi added.

The first of the four-match Test series is about to begin on Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad to host remaining three Tests.

In absence of injured Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, India will be forced to make a few changes to their XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. As KL Rahul has also returned to the setup, he is likely to take the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma, whereas, KS Bharat is likely to start ahead of Ishan Kishan for the keeper-batter role at least in the first two Tests.

In absence of injured Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, India will be forced to make a few changes to their XI for the first Test against Australia in Nagpur. As KL Rahul has also returned to the setup, he is likely to take the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma, whereas, KS Bharat is likely to start ahead of Ishan Kishan for the keeper-batter role at least in the first two Tests. So that leaves team management with just one slot to fill - the number 5th, for which two players are competing for - Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill. While there is a temptation to start with Suryakumar given his different array of shots and his ability to put the opposition under pressure, a former national selector Devang Gandhi feels the head coach Rahul Dravid could be prompted to play the man-in-form Shubman Gill at number five instead. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Sanjay Manjrekar predicts THIS star player to make the cut in XI for Nagpur Test Gandhi said as the young right-hander had scored a double hundred for India 'A' against the Windies playing in the middle-order, and had also scored a hundred in the previous series against Bangladesh too, he could just get the nod ahead of Suryakumar. While talking to Times of India (TOI), the ex-national selector said, “Shubman had a double hundred in West Indies playing for India ‘A’ in the middle-order. And in the last Test series that he played (against Bangladesh), he got a century. The fact that Gill plays spin as good as anybody else in the Indian team should also work in his favour, at least in the first Test," Gandhi said. On the other hand, India is also expected to play three spinners on a dry Nagpur track, and with Jadeja and Ashwin sure to start, it will be a toss-up between Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. While a few feel the Chinaman, Kuldeep deserves an extended run in this format considering his recent exploits across formats, Gandhi has a different view to it. He said India must go ahead with Axar Patel as he has proved himself on these pitches and can bat too, giving India an edge over their opposition. “We should not forget that Axar, who is a finger spinner similar to Jadeja, has been phenomenal on dry Indian tracks. He can keep an end tight. Add to that his batting ability, which can be crucial on a pitch like this,” Gandhi added. The first of the four-match Test series is about to begin on Thursday, February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmadabad to host remaining three Tests.

'Dravid will be tempted to play Shubman Gill at 5 given his recent records,' says ex-national selector

Following spectacular shows in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the past month, India’s duo of Shubman Gill and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj are nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for January. New Zealand’s Devon Conway is the third player to be nominated for the particular award. While Shubman had a dream run at least in the ODIs against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Siraj stood out as India’s best seamer across both formats.

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Three incredible performers have made the shortlist for ICC Men's Player of the Month for January 2023 👌
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During the final ODI against Sri Lanka, the young Shubman Gill scored his third&nbsp;hundred while against New Zealand in the following 1st match of their bilateral series in Hyderabad, he scored his maiden double century&nbsp;– scoring 208. In the 3rd match&nbsp;at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, Gill&nbsp;completed yet another three-figure score (112), ending the New Zealand ODIs with 360 runs to his name, which is the highest-ever for a batter in a three-match ODI series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-cameron-green-didnt-bat-in-nets-in-nagpur-remains-unlikely-to-feature-in-xi-for-1st-test-559572">Injured Cameron Green didn't bat in nets in Nagpur, remains unlikely to feature in XI for 1st Test</a>

Even against Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series&nbsp;before that, Gill had scored 207 runs including a hundred in the final game in Thiruvananthapuram. In total, he scored 567 runs at an average of 113.40 in ODIs in January in addition to scoring 76 runs in T20Is.

Mohammed Siraj, on the other hand, picked up nine wickets in three ODIs against the Lankans that included a match-winning performance of 4-32&nbsp;in the final game. During&nbsp;New Zealand ODIs, Siraj was the second-highest wicket-taker with six wickets to his name. In the first match, it was his spell of four for 46 that helped India win the close clash by 12 runs.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Devon Conway also had a pretty good start to 2023 – where he scored two ODI hundreds – one against Pakistan in Karachi and one against India in Indore. Even in the one Test played last month, Conway slammed a hundred there too – scoring 122 in the first innings at the National Stadium. With three hundreds and two fifties, Conway finished January 2023 with 493 runs in nine international matches.

Following spectacular shows in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the past month, India’s duo of Shubman Gill and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj are nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for January.

Following spectacular shows in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the past month, India’s duo of Shubman Gill and fast bowler Mohammed Siraj are nominated for the ICC Player of the Month award for January. New Zealand’s Devon Conway is the third player to be nominated for the particular award. While Shubman had a dream run at least in the ODIs against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Siraj stood out as India’s best seamer across both formats. 🇮🇳 🇳🇿 🇮🇳 Three incredible performers have made the shortlist for ICC Men's Player of the Month for January 2023 👌 — ICC (@ICC) February 7, 2023 × During the final ODI against Sri Lanka, the young Shubman Gill scored his third hundred while against New Zealand in the following 1st match of their bilateral series in Hyderabad, he scored his maiden double century – scoring 208. In the 3rd match at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, Gill completed yet another three-figure score (112), ending the New Zealand ODIs with 360 runs to his name, which is the highest-ever for a batter in a three-match ODI series. ALSO READ: Injured Cameron Green didn't bat in nets in Nagpur, remains unlikely to feature in XI for 1st Test Even against Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series before that, Gill had scored 207 runs including a hundred in the final game in Thiruvananthapuram. In total, he scored 567 runs at an average of 113.40 in ODIs in January in addition to scoring 76 runs in T20Is. Mohammed Siraj, on the other hand, picked up nine wickets in three ODIs against the Lankans that included a match-winning performance of 4-32 in the final game. During New Zealand ODIs, Siraj was the second-highest wicket-taker with six wickets to his name. In the first match, it was his spell of four for 46 that helped India win the close clash by 12 runs. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Devon Conway also had a pretty good start to 2023 – where he scored two ODI hundreds – one against Pakistan in Karachi and one against India in Indore. Even in the one Test played last month, Conway slammed a hundred there too – scoring 122 in the first innings at the National Stadium. With three hundreds and two fifties, Conway finished January 2023 with 493 runs in nine international matches.

India's Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj nominated for ICC Player of the Month Award for January

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton. Having such a flawless run, one expects Gill to feature in India's playing XI for the four-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur on February 09.

Nonetheless, the competition is tough as India have preferred the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in Tests. The two were at their best during the England Tests in 2021 and were expected to open together during the Bangladesh series before captain Rohit got injured. With Rahul being his deputy, it will be tough for Gill to replace him. With no Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, either of the two can bat in the middle order as well but the questions remains as to who will open with Rohit. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his take.

“Not in all three formats but in two formats. If you talk about Test matches, you have two openers who have scored runs in difficult conditions, scored runs in England and won matches for India there. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are there, so suddenly because Shubman Gill has scored runs in the T20 format, you cannot ask them to step aside and let him play. You need the stability,” Pathan told&nbsp;Star Sports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-sharma-but-virat-kohli-may-play-2024-t20-world-cup-predicts-former-indian-opener-558549">Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener</a>

Rohit and Rahul are expected to open the innings with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to follow suit. KS Bharat might don the wicketkeeping gloves with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel being the spin-bowling all-rounders whereas the likes of Mohammed Shami and Siraj are likely to handle the pace unit.

Squads

India (for first two Tests):&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav

Australia:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton.

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton. Having such a flawless run, one expects Gill to feature in India's playing XI for the four-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur on February 09. Nonetheless, the competition is tough as India have preferred the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in Tests. The two were at their best during the England Tests in 2021 and were expected to open together during the Bangladesh series before captain Rohit got injured. With Rahul being his deputy, it will be tough for Gill to replace him. With no Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, either of the two can bat in the middle order as well but the questions remains as to who will open with Rohit. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his take. “Not in all three formats but in two formats. If you talk about Test matches, you have two openers who have scored runs in difficult conditions, scored runs in England and won matches for India there. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are there, so suddenly because Shubman Gill has scored runs in the T20 format, you cannot ask them to step aside and let him play. You need the stability,” Pathan told Star Sports. Also read: Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener Rohit and Rahul are expected to open the innings with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to follow suit. KS Bharat might don the wicketkeeping gloves with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel being the spin-bowling all-rounders whereas the likes of Mohammed Shami and Siraj are likely to handle the pace unit. Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

'Just because he has scored runs in T20Is....': Irfan on Rahul vs Gill debate ahead of India-Australia Tests

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168&nbsp;runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1. After losing the series opener in Ranchi, the Men in Blue won a low-scoring thriller in Lucknow before wrapping up the series without dropping any sweat following Shubman Gill's record-breaking ton. Gill continued his rich vein of form versus the Kiwis -- having already scored a double hundred in the three ODIs -- to score his maiden ton in the format and take India to 234/4. During the NZ run-chase, early wickets and Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catches dented Mitchell Santner &amp; Co.&nbsp;as the fate of the contest was out in no time.

Winning the toss, India opted to bat first with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuvzendra Chahal. Gill's first fifty came off 35 balls and the next off mere 19 deliveries as he created havoc in front of a jam-packed stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 set the tone for the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take some time before he launched onto the poor deliveries. He remained unbeaten on 126, off 63 balls, striking at a whopping 200 along with 12 fours and 7 sixes. He was immaculate against the pacers, with his timely pulls, drives, flicks, etc., as India reached a mammoth total in 20 overs.&nbsp;

Indians with T20I hundreds

Suresh Raina 
Rohit Sharma 
KL Rahul 
Deepak Hooda 
Suryakumar Yadav 
Virat Kohli 
Shubman Gill

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-bcci-present-india-u19-womens-team-a-fat-cheque-for-t20-wc-win-before-ind-nz-3rd-t20i-557993">Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I</a>

Gill also ended with the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the format (126*) surpassing Kohli's 122* during the 2022 Asia Cup. In addition, he is only the fifth Indian to log a hundred in all three formats of men's cricket.

Indians to score a hundred in all formats:

Suresh Raina 
Rohit Sharma 
KL Rahul 
Virat Kohli 
Shubman Gill

In reply, NZ's run-chase never got going. Hardik removed dangerman Finn Allen with an edge as SKY completed a good catch. Arshdeep Singh joined in and claimed two quick wickets with Hardik and Umran Malik adding to Kiwis' miseries. Surya accounted for another brilliant catch (ending with three overall) in the slip cordon as the match was well and truly over in a flash. The first six overs were set to give a clear indication of how the match will proceed but the visitors were 21 for 5 in less than five overs. Eventually, India finished the formalities with the Black Caps managing only a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a big margin;&nbsp;their biggest-ever win in the format. Overall,&nbsp;this is the biggest margin of win&nbsp;in a contest held between&nbsp;two full member nations.

With the series win, the Men in Blue maintain their No. 1 position in T20Is. India will now return to the 22-yard cricket strip for the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, starting on February 09.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168 runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168 runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1. After losing the series opener in Ranchi, the Men in Blue won a low-scoring thriller in Lucknow before wrapping up the series without dropping any sweat following Shubman Gill's record-breaking ton. Gill continued his rich vein of form versus the Kiwis -- having already scored a double hundred in the three ODIs -- to score his maiden ton in the format and take India to 234/4. During the NZ run-chase, early wickets and Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catches dented Mitchell Santner & Co. as the fate of the contest was out in no time. Winning the toss, India opted to bat first with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuvzendra Chahal. Gill's first fifty came off 35 balls and the next off mere 19 deliveries as he created havoc in front of a jam-packed stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 set the tone for the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take some time before he launched onto the poor deliveries. He remained unbeaten on 126, off 63 balls, striking at a whopping 200 along with 12 fours and 7 sixes. He was immaculate against the pacers, with his timely pulls, drives, flicks, etc., as India reached a mammoth total in 20 overs. Indians with T20I hundreds Suresh Raina Rohit Sharma KL Rahul Deepak Hooda Suryakumar Yadav Virat Kohli Shubman Gill Also read: Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I Gill also ended with the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the format (126*) surpassing Kohli's 122* during the 2022 Asia Cup. In addition, he is only the fifth Indian to log a hundred in all three formats of men's cricket. Indians to score a hundred in all formats: Suresh Raina Rohit Sharma KL Rahul Virat Kohli Shubman Gill In reply, NZ's run-chase never got going. Hardik removed dangerman Finn Allen with an edge as SKY completed a good catch. Arshdeep Singh joined in and claimed two quick wickets with Hardik and Umran Malik adding to Kiwis' miseries. Surya accounted for another brilliant catch (ending with three overall) in the slip cordon as the match was well and truly over in a flash. The first six overs were set to give a clear indication of how the match will proceed but the visitors were 21 for 5 in less than five overs. Eventually, India finished the formalities with the Black Caps managing only a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a big margin; their biggest-ever win in the format. Overall, this is the biggest margin of win in a contest held between two full member nations. With the series win, the Men in Blue maintain their No. 1 position in T20Is. India will now return to the 22-yard cricket strip for the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, starting on February 09.

Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1

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