Large T20 redemption on playing cards for Shubman Gill in India vs Pakistan conflict?

When India announced their Asia Cup squad, the inclusion of Shubman Gill ahead of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer didn’t sit well with many. Critics accused the BCCI of favouritism, questioning why an anchor-like opener was backed over players who had already proven themselves in the shortest format.

Yet those close to the think tank were clear to continue with the tradition of earmarking a superstar to play all three formats. Suryakumar Yadav even explained that Gill had been chosen as T20I opener after the 2024 World Cup triumph but missed game time because of scheduling overlaps with Tests and ODIs.

The BCCI’s vision is obvious that they prefer grooming players who can transition seamlessly across formats, and Gill fits that template. In Tests, he blew away all the records in his first series as a captain. In ODIs, his average north of 60 since 2022 makes him indispensable. The only missing piece is T20 cricket, where his numbers remain patchy. For the selectors, though, that is not a dealbreaker. Their belief is that once Gill adjusts his tempo, he can anchor an innings and even rack up strike rates higher than usual.

Poor Asia Cup for Shubman Gill so far

But the early signs in this Asia Cup have been disappointing. Gill, who last featured in T20Is in July 2024, has returned as vice-captain but managed just 35 runs across three innings at a strike rate of 145.83. The figures suggest intent but not execution. Against Oman, he was bowled playing an expansive drive; in another game, he fell stumped chasing width. No doubt the two times he has been dismissed, Gill has had incredible deliveries to face.

This is why the India vs Pakistan clash on September 21 could become a massive opportunity. The stakes are never higher than against the arch-rivals, and Gill knows runs here would count double for the scoreboard and his reputation. India’s new T20 template is built on relentless aggression, with Abhishek Sharma striking at 225 and Suryakumar dictating tempo from No.3. Gill, with a career T20I strike rate below 140, has to prove he can complement that firepower rather than slow it down.

The template for his redemption already exists. During IPL 2025, Gill found a way to stay true to his strengths while also matching the team’s tempo, striking at 155.88. He opened with Sai Sudharsan and was effective without being reckless. That Gill is the one India desperately needs against Pakistan.

Gill is seen as India’s future captain across formats, the “uncrowned king” waiting to ascend. With Abhishek blazing away at one end and Suryakumar behind him, Gill has the perfect cushion to let his talent shine without fear.