Virat Kohli Recognized as Indian Team's Leading Advocate: Former Captain's Support for Shubman Gill
2 months ago | 5 Views
Virat Kohli served as the captain of the Indian cricket team across all formats when Shubman Gill, then just 19 years old, made his debut during an overseas tour to New Zealand in early 2019. After observing Gill's practice sessions for the first time prior to the ODI series, Kohli remarked that Gill's skills at that age far surpassed his own. Since that initial encounter, Gill has consistently excelled, securing his position in all three formats of the Indian team and ascending to a leadership role; he was appointed vice-captain for the ODI series against England as well as for the Champions Trophy. Throughout this journey, Kohli's unwavering support for Gill has remained evident.
Fast forward to the first ODI against England in Nagpur on February 6, 2025. Kohli was absent from the playing XI due to a sore left knee, which ruled him out of the series opener. Although this was a significant loss for India, the injury was not severe, and Kohli's absence was primarily a precautionary measure in light of the upcoming Champions Trophy. Nevertheless, the former captain continued to provide encouragement from the dressing room, displaying his enthusiasm as Gill showcased his batting prowess.
Gill delivered an impressive performance, scoring 87 runs and earning the Player of the Match accolade. However, one particular moment captured the attention of fans: during the final ball of the 24th over, bowled by Liam Livingstone, Gill executed a perfectly timed lofted extra cover drive that sped to the boundary. Kohli's admiration was palpable; when the cameras shifted to the dressing room, he was seen applauding in awe. The clip quickly gained traction online, with one fan commenting on Kohli's role as "his biggest cheerleader in the team."
His biggest cheerleader in team .pic.twitter.com/lHV0AzLERu
— ❥⁷⁷~ (@QueenBushra_77) February 6, 2025
Gill, who achieved a precise score of 87 in India's four-wicket triumph over England in Nagpur, informed Disney-Hotstar: "It's not a serious issue. He (Kohli) was in good form during yesterday's (Wednesday) practice, but he woke up this morning (Thursday) with some swelling in his knee. He will certainly return for the second ODI."
The top-order batsman remarked that he did not become overly focused on reaching his century, noting that he would have executed the shot that led to his dismissal even if he had been in the 60s.
Jos Buttler made a remarkable diving catch at mid-on off Saqib Mahmood's delivery as Gill, attempting to manage the innings' pace, misplayed a shot, leaving India at 235/6.
"No, I wasn't preoccupied with my century. My attention was on the field placements, and I played my shots accordingly. I aimed to assert dominance over the bowler, and I would have played that same shot even if I were in my 60s," Gill stated.
Typically an opener in ODIs, Gill expressed that he had no difficulties batting at No. 3 during the series against England.
"I often bat at No. 3 in Tests, so the transition was not significant. It is always a challenge in that position as one must adjust to the game's circumstances. If the team loses wickets quickly, a sensible approach is necessary. Conversely, if the team is performing well, it is important to maintain the momentum. My strategy was straightforward — play according to the situation."
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