'He must perform': Ex-India cricketer issues strong warning to Shubman Gill ahead of Australia T20Is

Aakash Chopra believes Shubman Gill will face serious pressure in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Australia, not only because of his poor Asia Cup form but also due to strong competition from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson. The former India opener said that head coach Gautam Gambhir’s T20 World Cup plans will be closely watched during this series, especially after the decision to overlook Samson and Jaiswal for the opening role.

Gill, who returned to T20Is after more than a year, had a disappointing Asia Cup campaign. The 25-year-old, now India’s T20I vice-captain and seen by the BCCI as a future leader in the format, managed only 127 runs in seven innings at an average of 21.16. His comeback pushed Samson out of the opening slot despite the Kerala cricketer’s strong performances over the last year, which included three centuries. Samson was instead moved down the order, often without a consistent role.



Chopra felt that Gill’s return came at an unfair cost to Samson and stressed that the opener now needs to justify the team’s faith. “This series is going to be crucial for Shubman Gill. He did not score much when he was made ODI captain either. I understand it was just one series, so there should not be too much judgement, but he must deliver now,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.


The former batter also pointed out the growing competition within the squad. “There are players waiting in line. Sanju Samson had opened and done well, yet he is now being asked to bat in the middle order. It feels a bit unfair to him. That brings extra pressure on Gill,” he remarked.

Chopra further added that Jaiswal’s presence adds another layer of competition. “Yashasvi Jaiswal is also waiting. He will feel that he deserves a chance too and can perform if given the opportunity. So even having Jaiswal on the bench creates pressure,” he said.

Catch Lovlina Borgohain's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 5. Watch Here