According to former India chairman of selectors MSK Prasad, if Shubman Gill is fit, he should play against Pakistan in the 2023 World Cup match on Saturday in Ahmedabad. Gill’s rapid recovery puts him in contention to rejoin India’s playing XI for the match against Pakistan. Just a night before, it seemed unlikely that Gill would be available for the Pakistan match as he was discharged from the hospital. However, he arrived in Ahmedabad from Chennai and participated in a practice session on Thursday morning, his first in over a week.
Gill appeared to be in good spirits and batted for nearly an hour during the practice session without showing any physical discomfort. He will have another full practice session with the team on Friday evening, which could determine his readiness to make his World Cup debut on Saturday.
This development also suggests that the Indian team management has decided not to consider Ruturaj Gaikwad or Yashasvi Jaiswal as backups for Gill. Former India chairman of selectors MSK Prasad emphasized that Gill is an essential player and that his illness was not severe enough to warrant considering replacements.
Gill’s record at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is impressive, and his familiarity with the ground adds to his value. He has averaged 93 in the four matches (three Tests and a T20I) he has played at the venue, including two centuries. With Gill’s experience and success at this ground, his inclusion in the playing XI would be a significant advantage for India, especially against Pakistan.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain advised the Indian team management to be cautious and consider factors like heat and humidity while making their decision to play Gill, considering the duration of the tournament.
Ultimately, Gill’s return to the playing XI would be a significant boost for India, offering both stability and a strong track record in Ahmedabad.
