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 young sensation Shubman Gill. The 23-year-old batsman has been in phenomenal form, showcasing his skills in various formats of the game, and many expected him to be a part of the Indian team for the prestigious tournament. However, the selectors had other plans, and Gill was left out of the squad. This decision has sparked a lot of debate, with many experts and former players weighing in on the matter.
One such expert is former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, who expressed his surprise at Gill’s omission from the squad. In a recent statement, Ponting said, “I’m surprised, but…it just shows the depth of Indian cricket. 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.” Ponting’s comments highlight the incredible talent pool that India has at its disposal, making it challenging for players like Gill to break into the team.
Ponting, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest captains in cricket history, knows a thing or two about building a strong team. During his playing days, he was known for his exceptional leadership skills, which helped Australia dominate the cricket world. His opinion on Gill’s omission carries significant weight, and it’s clear that he believes the young batsman has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
Gill, who made his international debut in 2019, has been impressive in his short career so far. He has scored over 1,000 runs in ODIs and has also made a significant impact in the T20 format. His ability to play aggressively and score big runs has made him a favorite among fans and experts alike. However, despite his impressive performances, Gill was unable to break into the Indian team for the T20 World Cup.
The Indian team’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 has a good mix of experienced players and young talent. The team will be led by Rohit Sharma, who has been in excellent form in recent times. The squad also includes other notable players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah, among others. While the team looks strong on paper, the omission of Gill has raised eyebrows, and many are questioning the selectors’ decision.
Ponting’s comments on Gill’s omission have sparked a debate about the depth of Indian cricket. The country has a vast pool of talented players, and the competition for spots in the national team is fierce. The fact that someone as talented as Gill can’t make it to the squad is a testament to the incredible talent that India has at its disposal. However, it also raises questions about the selectors’ vision and strategy for the team.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, the Indian team will be looking to make a strong impression. The team has been in good form in recent times, and the players will be eager to prove themselves on the biggest stage. While Gill’s omission is a disappointment, it’s also an opportunity for other players to step up and make a name for themselves.
In conclusion, Ricky Ponting’s comments on Shubman Gill’s omission from the Indian team for the T20 World Cup 2026 have sparked a lot of debate. While it’s surprising to see someone as talented as Gill left out of the squad, it’s also a testament to the incredible depth of Indian cricket. The team has a good mix of experienced players and young talent, and it will be interesting to see how they perform in the tournament. As for Gill, he will have to wait for another opportunity to prove himself, but his time will surely come.
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