From Setback to Stardom: Shubman Gill’s Journey Back to India’s T20 Fold
“Fall seven times and stand up eight.” Shubman Gill’s story over the past two years embodies this proverb perfectly. After a glittering 2023 IPL season where he amassed 890 runs, expectations were high that he would anchor India’s opening slot for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Yet, the transition from IPL dominance to international consistency proved elusive, and Gill missed out on the tournament in the US and Caribbean.
Fast forward to 2025: a 650-run IPL campaign — not even the highest for a Gujarat Titans player — has seen Gill return to the national squad, this time with the added responsibility of vice-captaincy. His journey is less about raw numbers and more about evolution — as a batsman capable of adapting, leading, and inspiring.
A New Role in a Changing Line-Up
So, what has changed since 2024? The presence of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli previously meant India already had three batsmen of a similar mould, limiting the need for Gill. Today, with the big two retired, India’s T20 batting lacked a player who could shift gears — anchor an innings, accelerate when required, and blend aggression with prudence. Gill now fits that crucial role.
The last IPL season showcased a more mature, evolved Gill. Leading a Gujarat Titans side heavily dependent on their top three, he demonstrated an ability to play across phases — starting aggressively, adjusting pace mid-innings, and finishing with authority — without resorting to reckless shots. Boundaries came through timing rather than sheer power, reflecting a confidence grounded in his core skills.
Breaking Free from Home-Ground Dependence
A deeper dive into his statistics highlights his growth. Between 2022 and 2024, Gill’s T20 success was largely home-ground dependent: 1,027 of 2,637 runs were scored at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad at a striking 79.00 average. Outside Ahmedabad, his impact was limited — just 1,610 runs in 55 innings.
The 2025 IPL changed that narrative. Gill scored 446 runs away from home at a higher average, with a remarkable middle-overs performance of 323 runs at a strike rate of 163.13, second only to Suryakumar Yadav and Jos Buttler in that phase. This demonstrated his ability to thrive under varied conditions, a skill crucial for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
A Tactical and Leadership Asset
Gill’s versatility is a luxury India will need in shaping a squad for the 2025 T20 World Cup at home. The management’s focus on stability — giving batsmen a long rope rather than chasing aggressive intent — complements his strengths. His consistency without taking excessive risks makes him invaluable, particularly in middle overs or on challenging pitches.
His inclusion also prompts tactical decisions. If he opens, adjustments may be needed for Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and others. Slotting him at No. 3 could preserve the top order while boosting middle-order flexibility. His solidity also allows India to retain seamers and X-factor spinners without compromising depth — a balancing act critical to modern T20 strategy.
Beyond the Runs
Gill brings more than just runs. His leadership, adaptability, and measured temperament could define India’s campaign. In a format dominated by high-risk shots and quick turnovers, his ability to control tempo and play with intelligence offers India a rare advantage.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, Shubman Gill stands as a testament to perseverance, growth, and leadership. In T20 cricket, where raw power often dominates, his journey reminds us that a steady, adaptable hand can achieve what sheer force alone cannot.