I couldn’t believe it: Ricky Ponting on India not picking Shubman Gill in T20 World Cup squad
The cricket world was left stunned when the Indian team announced its squad for the T20 World Cup 2026, and one of the most notable omissions was that of young batting sensation Shubman Gill. The 27-year-old has been in scintillating form of late, showcasing his skills in various formats of the game, and many expected him to be a shoo-in for the Indian team. However, in a surprise move, the selectors decided to leave him out of the squad, a decision that has left many experts and fans scratching their heads.
One person who was particularly surprised by this decision is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting. Ponting, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, has always been a keen observer of the game and has never been afraid to speak his mind. In a recent interview, he expressed his shock and disappointment at Gill’s omission from the Indian T20 World Cup squad.
“I’m surprised, but…it just shows the depth of Indian cricket,” Ponting said. “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.” These words from Ponting sum up the sentiment of many cricket fans and experts who feel that Gill’s exclusion is a testament to the incredible talent and depth that Indian cricket possesses.
Gill, who has been one of the most consistent performers for India in recent times, has been in outstanding form, scoring runs consistently across formats. His ability to play effortlessly in various conditions and against different types of bowlers has made him a valuable asset to the Indian team. However, despite his impressive performances, the selectors have opted to go with other players, a decision that has left many questioning their logic.
Ponting’s comments on Gill’s omission are significant, given his reputation as a cricketing legend and his understanding of the game. As someone who has played against and watched some of the greatest teams and players in the history of cricket, Ponting’s opinion carries weight, and his surprise at Gill’s exclusion is a reflection of the high regard in which the young Indian batsman is held.
The decision to leave Gill out of the T20 World Cup squad has sparked a debate about the selection process and the criteria used to pick players for major tournaments. While the Indian team has a rich pool of talent to choose from, many feel that Gill’s consistency and form warranted his inclusion in the squad. The fact that he has been able to adapt to different conditions and situations, and has consistently delivered for the team, makes his exclusion even more puzzling.
Ponting’s observation that Gill’s omission shows the depth of Indian cricket is a valid one. The Indian team has a plethora of talented players, and the competition for places is fierce. However, this also raises questions about the selection process and whether the right players are being picked for the right tournaments. As the T20 World Cup approaches, the Indian team will be under immense pressure to perform, and the absence of Gill from the squad will be keenly felt.
In conclusion, Ricky Ponting’s comments on Shubman Gill’s omission from the Indian T20 World Cup squad have sparked a lively debate about the selection process and the criteria used to pick players for major tournaments. While the Indian team has a wealth of talent to choose from, Gill’s consistency and form made him a strong contender for a place in the squad. As the cricket world looks on, it will be interesting to see how the Indian team performs in the T20 World Cup and whether the selectors’ decision to leave Gill out will be justified.
The exclusion of Gill from the T20 World Cup squad is a reminder that cricket is a game of surprises, and nothing can be taken for granted. As the tournament approaches, fans and experts will be watching with bated breath to see how the Indian team performs and whether they can justify their decision to leave out one of their most talented young players.
As we look ahead to the T20 World Cup, one thing is certain – the Indian team will face intense scrutiny and pressure to perform. The absence of Gill from the squad will be a talking point, and the team’s performance will be closely watched. Whether the selectors’ decision to leave him out will be vindicated remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the T20 World Cup will be an exciting and unpredictable tournament, full of twists and turns that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
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