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 squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 was announced, and one of the most talented young players, Shubman Gill, was not included in the team. The decision to leave out Gill, who has been in phenomenal form in recent times, has sparked a lot of debate and discussion among cricket fans and experts. One of the most surprised individuals is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who couldn’t believe that India didn’t pick Gill in the T20 World Cup squad.
In a recent interview, Ponting expressed his shock and surprise at Gill’s omission from the Indian team. “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,” he added. Ponting’s comments highlight the incredible talent and depth that Indian cricket possesses, which makes it difficult for even the most skilled players to make it to the national team.
Gill, who is just 23 years old, has already made a significant impact in international cricket. He has been one of the most consistent performers for India in the shorter formats of the game, showcasing his exceptional batting skills and ability to play under pressure. Gill’s omission from the T20 World Cup squad has raised questions about the selection process and the criteria used to choose players for the team.
Ponting’s comments also underscore the challenges that selectors face when choosing a team, especially when there is so much talent available. The Indian team has a plethora of talented players, and the competition for places is fierce. However, many fans and experts believe that Gill’s form and performance warranted his inclusion in the team.
The T20 World Cup is one of the most prestigious tournaments in international cricket, and every team wants to field its strongest possible squad. India, in particular, has a rich history of performing well in ICC events, and the team’s fans expect nothing but the best from their players. The omission of Gill from the squad has sparked a lot of debate, with many questioning the decision and wondering what the selectors were thinking.
Ponting, who is one of the most successful captains in the history of Australian cricket, knows a thing or two about building a strong team. He has been involved in the game for many years and has seen many talented players come and go. His comments on Gill’s omission are significant, as they come from someone who has a deep understanding of the game and its nuances.
The Indian team’s selectors have a tough job, and they must consider many factors when choosing a team. However, the omission of Gill has raised questions about the team’s batting lineup and whether it is strong enough to compete with the best teams in the world. Gill’s ability to play long innings and score big runs would have been a significant asset to the team, especially in the pressure-cooker environment of a World Cup.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, the Indian team will be under intense scrutiny, and their performance will be closely watched by fans and experts around the world. The team’s selectors will be hoping that their decisions pay off, and the team performs well in the tournament. However, for now, the omission of Gill remains a topic of debate, and many will be wondering what could have been if he had been included in the squad.
In conclusion, Ricky Ponting’s comments on Shubman Gill’s omission from the Indian T20 World Cup squad have sparked a lot of debate and discussion. While Ponting acknowledges the depth of Indian cricket, he is surprised that someone as talented as Gill was not included in the team. The decision to leave out Gill has raised questions about the selection process and the criteria used to choose players for the team. As the T20 World Cup approaches, the Indian team will be under intense scrutiny, and their performance will be closely watched by fans and experts around the world.