IND vs SA: Shubman Gill Yet to Secure T20 Spot, Receives Warning Ahead of South Africa Series

New Delhi: Indian captain Shubman Gill is all set to return to action after recovering from a neck injury sustained during the first Test against South Africa. The injury kept him out for nearly three weeks, but he is now ready to make his comeback in the upcoming T20 series, starting with the first match at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack.

Irfan Pathan’s Take on Gill
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has highlighted this series as a crucial opportunity for Gill to cement his place in India’s T20 side. Speaking on GeoStar, Pathan said:
“Shubman Gill must establish himself in the top order of India’s T20 team. Players who can perform across formats are highly valued. His IPL record shows how well he can play. This five-match series gives him ample opportunity to prove himself. He is returning from a minor injury, and with batting-friendly pitches, he should enjoy his time at the crease.”

Gill’s T20 Struggles
Despite his success in Tests and ODIs, Gill’s T20 record has been underwhelming. In 33 T20 Internationals, he has scored runs at an average below 30 with a strike rate of 140. Since his return during the Asia Cup, he has played 12 matches without registering a fifty, accumulating 259 runs at an average of 28.77. His highest score during this period is 47. India is giving him another opening opportunity, replacing Sanju Samson, as Gill has already scored three international centuries as an opener since 2024.

Lower-Middle Order Concerns
Pathan also emphasized the need for a reliable finisher alongside Hardik Pandya for India’s World Cup ambitions. He added:
“We need to see who can partner Hardik effectively in the finishing role. To win the World Cup at home, our lower-middle order must be in strong form. Options like Akshar, Jitesh, and Rinku are available, but the key is finding the best synergy with Hardik.”

With the T20 series against South Africa approaching, all eyes will be on Gill to see if he can convert this opportunity into a solid return to form.