'Don’t Be Surprised.....' - Michael Clarke on Shubman Gill leading India after T20 World Cup
Michael Clarke believes Shubman Gill could return after the T20 World Cup and even take over India’s captaincy despite being dropped from the squad.
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Shubman Gill, one of India’s most talked-about batters, was left out of the T20 World Cup squad announced by the BCCI. The tournament is set to begin on February 7. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel chose players like Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh instead. Gill’s omission has sparked wide debate among fans and experts.
The decision came despite Gill being a regular name in India’s white-ball plans. Many expected him to feature, especially given his reputation and past performances. However, concerns around his recent T20 form played a role. The selectors opted to focus on players they felt were better suited at this stage.
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has now spoken in support of Gill. Clarke believes the snub does not end Gill’s chances. In fact, he feels Gill could make a strong return after the World Cup. Clarke even sees leadership potential in the young batter.
“Don’t Be Surprised If He Takes Over the Captaincy”
“He might still be (in contention). I don't think that changes too much. I think the squads needed to be announced by a certain time, and he wasn't batting as well as he would like,” Clarke said on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast. He added that India have many opening options and the timing worked against Gill.
Clarke also pointed out that the selectors wanted full focus on World Cup preparation. “They wanted these couple of warm-up games to be a real focus on what they are doing in the World Cup,” he said. According to him, questions over Gill’s form led to the call. The decision was made specifically with the World Cup in mind.
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Gill had been named India’s T20I vice-captain last year, replacing Axar Patel. However, the selectors later reappointed Axar as vice-captain for the World Cup. Looking ahead, Clarke remains confident. “I think after the World Cup, don't be surprised if he not only comes back into the team, but he also takes over the captaincy,” he said, adding that Gill is “an unbelievable player” and India are fully focused on winning the World Cup.
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