India’s ambitious push to project Shubman Gill as the new face of Indian cricket is drawing criticism after a prolonged slump in T20 internationals and the sidelining of in-form players like Sanju Samson. Gill, seen as the next-generation leader after the retirements and transitions of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, was fast-tracked into major leadership roles this year. He became Test captain, was handed responsibility in ODIs, and returned to T20s as vice-captain. But the results have been far from convincing.
Since his comeback to the T20I setup in September, Gill has scored just 263 runs in 15 innings at an average of 21.92 and a strike rate below 116. His latest setback came with a first-ball duck against South Africa in New Chandigarh, adding to growing concerns about his form and suitability at the top of the order. While his Test performances have remained consistent, Gill’s white-ball rhythm has visibly declined.
The bigger controversy revolves around the team management’s decisions. Gill’s return disrupted the successful opening partnership of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. Samson, who smashed three T20I centuries last year in just over a month, was pushed down the order and eventually dropped to accommodate Gill. Many believe Samson has become collateral damage in India’s attempt to build a brand around Gill.
Critics argue that coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar may have overburdened Gill by thrusting too much responsibility on him too quickly. Constant travel, leadership duties, and a packed schedule have reportedly led to mental fatigue, with Gill himself admitting to exhaustion. His recent neck spasms, which kept him out for four weeks, have added to concerns.
While Gill’s talent is unquestioned, experts say India must reassess whether rushing him into a poster-boy role is helping or hurting the team. With a T20 World Cup on the horizon, fans are eager to see whether management course-corrects or continues to double down on their chosen heir.
