Shubman Gill, the opener for Team India, claimed he was unaware of the controversy surrounding the pitch before the 2023 World Cup semifinal matchup against New Zealand. When questioned about it during a news conference held after the game, he said that he learned about the incident from hearing the reporter’s question. Scroll down to read Shubman Gill Gives Funny Response On Pitch Swap Controversy.
Shubman Gill Gives Funny Response On Pitch Swap Controversy
In the opening 2023 World Cup semi-final, India defeated New Zealand by 70 runs on Wednesday at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. After winning the toss and opting to bat first. The Men in Blue amassed a massive 397/4 and restricted the determined Kiwis to 327.
According to several media reports before the match, the Indian Cricket Council was not thrilled that the semi-final was being played on a used surface rather than a brand-new one. Both the ICC and the BCCI, however, clarified the situation and said there was no need for controversy.
When asked about the same during a press conference held after the game, Gill grinned and said:
“I recently learned that the pitch was the subject of dispute. You informed me. Which controversy is this? [What caused the dispute?]”
Despite posting a score of 397/4, New Zealand presented a threat to India, especially when Daryl Mitchell (134) and Kane Williamson (69) combined to contribute 181 runs for the third wicket.
Gill acknowledged that India was aware of how difficult it would be to bowl in the dark. Nonetheless, he believed that they were only a few wickets away from winning the match.
To be honest, I believe we anticipated difficulty, particularly in the presence of lights. It becomes a little harder for the bowlers here to contain runs when the new ball gets a little older. We knew it would be difficult, but we needed to focus on continuing to bowl in the areas we wanted to and waiting for them to make a mistake. And we carried that out,” the 24-year-old remarked.
And I believe that at one time, with such high scores, Daryl and Kane’s cooperation appeared to be a little difficult. However, as he pointed out, “You’re always in the game with a few wickets here and there.”
After the Mitchell-Williamson combination was disrupted, India tightened the screws and prevailed by a respectable amount.
Gill was a standout performer for India during the 2018 U19 World Cup. He’s moved into the senior side with ease ever since.
When asked about his incredible climb, he declared:
To be honest, there’s a lot to be excited about. We are now in the finals. We would then have a few more significant series, but those are all being discussed in retrospect at this time. Additionally, it keeps you grounded if you are constantly searching for something to look forward to.
In India’s victory over New Zealand, Gill scored 80 off 66, hitting eight fours and three sixes.
