India’s designated opener, Shubman Gill is not well. He is still battling dengue & might miss India’s fixture against Afghanistan & Pakistan as well. In such a situation, there is a need for Team India to bring in a substitute for a prolific opener who can serve as his cover in his absence. As per reports, Yashasvi Jaiswal & Rutiraj Gaikwad can step in as Shubman Gill’s replacement.
Ahead of India’s opening fixture against Australia, Shubman was diagnosed with dengue & was hospitalized keeping him away from India’s opening fixture. It was predicted that Gill would return for Men in Blue’s second fixture against Afghanistan. But unfortunately, his Platelet count dipped below 1,00,000 making his immediate return impossible. The BCCI has confirmed that his absence from the India vs Pakistan clash is to be played on October 14 in Ahmedabad.
Jaiswal of Gaikwad who will walk in as Shubman Gill’s Replacement?
As per the reports, Indian team management are thinking of including Yashasvi Jaiswal & Ruturaj Gaikwad as Shubman Gill’s replacement. Both cricketers have been on the selectors’ radar, showcasing their skills and potential in domestic and IPL cricket. Even in the Asian Games 2023, the duo has performed exceptionally forcing selectors to give thought to including them in the mainstream Indian team.
Yashavi Jaiswal: Known for his exemplary stroke-making & consistency, Jaiwasl has left a mark on the Cricket fraternity. His remarkable innings against Nepal in the Asian Games made him the youngest centurion in T20I format hitting a ton in just 21 years & 279 days.
Ruturaj Gaikwad: Maharashtra’s lad has time & again proved his prowess both on the domestic and international front. He is an apt opener with the ability to anchor an innings effectively. It was due to Gaikwad’s heroics that the Indian team won gold at the Asian Games 2023.
Now the selection committee is in a dilemma to go with which candidate for the opener’s role. They will choose the candidate on the basis of their current form, adaptability & pressure handling.
Shubman Gill’s absence is a major concern for Team India
Shubman Gill’s absence is not only a concern for the Indian team but also for the entire cricket enthusiasts. He has displayed mind-blowing performances in 2023 including being the leading run-scorer in ODIs. Gill’s stats speaks volume for him.
However, there is good news for Shubman Gill’s fans as he has been discharged from Chennai’s hospital & is currently at the team hotel in Chennai. He will continue to be monitored by the BCCI medical team. However, the uncertainty surrounding his participation in India’s match against Pakistan looms large.
In Shubman Gill’s absence, Ishan Kishan will likely open innings along with Rohit Sharma. Both Rohit & Ishan failed to create a mark during the fixture against Australia getting dismissed for ducks. India was reeling in the chase of 200 runs when Virat & KL joined hands & guided India to rescue. Whether it’s Gaikwad or Jaiswal anyone who will join India’s lineup will aim to guide Men in Blue in their title triumph.
Also read, ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table after IND vs AUS clash
