In what could be a significant blow to the Indian cricket team, star batsman Shubman Gill may miss the first World Cup game against Australia, scheduled for Sunday in Chennai. Gill, who has been in sensational form recently, is reportedly undergoing treatment after testing positive for dengue. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the opening match of the tournament, the uncertainty surrounding Gill’s availability has cast a shadow over India’s preparations.
The talented opener missed a crucial net session at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday, signaling his health issues. Sources close to the team revealed that the Indian team management is closely monitoring Gill’s progress and will make a final decision on his participation following another round of medical tests scheduled for Friday.
If Gill, often touted as one of India’s brightest young batting talents, fails to recover in time for the game against Australia, the team management will face a difficult decision regarding his replacement. The likely contenders for the opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma are Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul.
Gill’s potential absence from the playing XI could be a significant setback for the Indian team. The 22-year-old has been in sublime form throughout the year, consistently delivering impressive performances with the bat. His standout moment this year was a magnificent double century against New Zealand. Although he faced a minor slump during the West Indies tour, Gill quickly bounced back to demonstrate remarkable consistency.
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Gill was the tournament’s leading run-scorer, accumulating a staggering 890 runs. His outstanding batting also earned him the top spot on the batting charts in the recent Asia Cup, where he scored a total of 302 runs. In his last few innings leading up to the World Cup, Gill notched scores of 104, 74, 27*, 121, 19, 58, and 67*.
Gill’s absence would undoubtedly create a void in the Indian batting lineup, given his ability to anchor the innings and play match-winning knocks. His partnership with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order has often set the tone for India’s victories.
The lead-up to the World Cup has already been marked by uncertainties for the Indian team, as several key players made their comebacks after recovering from injuries. The return of fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, batsman KL Rahul, and middle-order batsman Shreyas Iyer brought both excitement and apprehension. These players needed to regain their rhythm and form after prolonged absences from international cricket.
In addition to these concerns, spinner Axar Patel’s injury during the Asia Cup further complicated matters for the team. Axar Patel had been a crucial part of India’s World Cup plans but was replaced in the squad by Ravichandran Ashwin due to his untimely injury.
The uncertainty surrounding Gill’s participation underscores the challenges faced by the Indian team as they enter the World Cup. While they boast a talented and well-rounded squad, the team’s success may hinge on the fitness and availability of key players. As fans and experts eagerly await the outcome of Gill’s medical tests, the Indian cricket fraternity holds its collective breath, hoping for positive news that would allow the young batting sensation to grace the field in India’s opening match against Australia.
