India has produced many legendary batsmen who consistently scored runs for the Men in Blue over the years. Sunil Gavaskar was India’s first cricket superstar, followed by icons like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, who handled immense expectations with class.
Shubman Gill, considered India’s next big batting star, recently shared on a podcast that he grew up admiring Tendulkar. The T20I vice-captain explained that Tendulkar was his father’s favorite cricketer and inspired him to start playing cricket. Later, as Gill learned more about the mental and tactical side of the game, he began looking up to Virat Kohli, admiring his passion and relentless drive to score runs.
Shubman Gill revealed on an Apple Music podcast that he has always had two cricket idols. He said, “The first was Sachin Tendulkar. My dad loved him, and I started playing cricket because of Sachin. He retired in 2013, and between 2011 and 2013, I began truly understanding cricket — not just the techniques, but also the mental and tactical aspects of the game.”
He added, “During that time, I also started following Virat Kohli closely. I admired his passion, dedication, and hunger for the game. You can learn skills and techniques, but hunger is something natural. Virat had it in abundance, and that really inspired me.”
Shubman Gill will be an important player for India in the ongoing Asia Cup. In India’s opening match against the UAE, the right-handed batter scored an unbeaten 20 runs off just nine balls, helping the defending champions chase a 58-run target in only 4.3 overs. This was Shubman’s first T20I game since July 2024. India will next face their arch-rivals Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 14.
FAQ
Who are Shubman Gill’s cricket idols?
Shubman Gill has revealed that he has had two cricketing idols who inspired his journey, though he has not specified their names publicly.
What role will Shubman play in India’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign?
Shubman Gill is expected to play a crucial role in India’s batting lineup, providing stability and explosive scoring at the top order.
How did Shubman perform in India’s opening match against the UAE?
He scored an unbeaten 20 runs off 9 balls, helping India chase 58 runs in just 4.3 overs.
When did Shubman last play a T20I match before the Asia Cup 2025?
His last T20I appearance was in July 2024.