I couldn’t believe it: Ricky Ponting on India not picking Shubman Gill in T20 World Cup squad
The cricketing world was left stunned when the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 was announced, and one of the most talented young batsmen, Shubman Gill, was not included in the team. The decision sparked a heated debate among fans, experts, and former players, with many questioning the selectors’ choice. One such prominent voice is that of former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who expressed his disbelief at Gill’s omission from the squad.
Ponting, a legendary batsman and one of the most successful captains in international cricket, was surprised by the decision to leave out Gill, who has been in impressive form in recent times. “I’m surprised, but…it just shows the depth of Indian cricket,” Ponting said in a statement that reflected his astonishment. “If you can think that someone as good as Gill doesn’t get picked in World Cup squad…then it goes to show how many good players they have,” he added. These words from Ponting highlight the incredible talent pool that Indian cricket boasts, where even a player of Gill’s caliber can miss out on a major tournament.
Shubman Gill, just 23 years old, has already made a significant impact on the international stage. With his elegant batting style and ability to score runs in all conditions, he has been hailed as one of the future stars of Indian cricket. His performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and for the Indian team have been nothing short of impressive, making his exclusion from the T20 World Cup squad even more puzzling.
Ponting’s reaction is not isolated, as many cricket enthusiasts and experts have voiced their disappointment and surprise over Gill’s omission. The decision has sparked discussions about the selection process and the criteria used by the selectors to choose the squad. While the Indian team has a rich history of producing talented cricketers, the omission of a player like Gill, who is considered a future mainstay of the team, raises questions about the vision and strategy of the selectors.
The depth of Indian cricket, as mentioned by Ponting, is indeed one of the strengths of the team. The country has a vast talent pool, with numerous players competing for spots in the national team. This competition is healthy and is one of the reasons behind India’s consistent performance in international cricket. However, the challenge for the selectors is to balance the experience and youth, ensuring that the team has the right mix of players to succeed in major tournaments like the T20 World Cup.
Ricky Ponting’s comments also underscore the high expectations from the Indian team. As one of the most successful teams in international cricket, India is always under pressure to perform. The T20 World Cup, being a premier tournament, adds to the anticipation and scrutiny. The selectors’ decision to leave out Shubman Gill, therefore, is not just about the player himself but also about the team’s strategy and preparation for the tournament.
In conclusion, the omission of Shubman Gill from the Indian T20 World Cup squad has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community. Ricky Ponting’s disbelief at this decision reflects the high regard in which Gill is held. While it highlights the depth of Indian cricket, it also raises questions about the selection process and the vision for the team’s future. As the T20 World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on the Indian team, and their performance will be scrutinized closely. The hope is that the selectors’ decision proves to be the right one, and the team succeeds in the tournament, but for now, the debate over Gill’s exclusion will continue.
About the Author
