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 batsman Shubman Gill. The 27-year-old has been in phenomenal form in recent times, scoring runs consistently across formats and establishing himself as one of the most promising players in the country. However, despite his impressive performances, Gill was overlooked by the Indian selectors, who opted to go with other players in the squad.
The decision to leave Gill out of the World Cup squad has been met with widespread criticism and surprise, with many experts and former players questioning the logic behind the move. One such person is former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, who expressed his shock and disappointment at Gill’s omission. “I’m surprised, but…it just shows the depth of Indian cricket,” Ponting said in a recent interview. “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 reflect the general sentiment among cricket fans and experts, who believe that Gill’s exclusion is a surprise, given his recent form and performances. The young batsman has been one of the most consistent players in Indian cricket, scoring runs in both domestic and international cricket. His ability to play across formats and conditions has made him a valuable asset to the team, and his omission from the World Cup squad has raised eyebrows.
Ponting, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest captains in cricket history, knows a thing or two about building a strong team and making tough selection decisions. During his tenure as Australia captain, he led the team to unprecedented success, winning two World Cups and dominating international cricket for over a decade. His comments on Gill’s omission, therefore, carry significant weight and reflect the high esteem in which the young batsman is held.
The Indian selectors, on the other hand, have defended their decision to leave Gill out of the World Cup squad, citing the need to balance the team and accommodate other players who are better suited to the conditions and format of the tournament. While this explanation may hold some merit, it is difficult to argue with Ponting’s assertion that Gill’s omission is a reflection of the depth and quality of Indian cricket.
In recent years, India has produced a plethora of talented young players, many of whom have gone on to establish themselves as international stars. The likes of Gill, Ishan Kishan, and Ruturaj Gaikwad, among others, have all made a significant impact on the cricket scene, and their emergence has added to the competition for places in the Indian team. This competition, while healthy, can sometimes lead to tough selection decisions, as we have seen in the case of Gill’s omission from the World Cup squad.
As Ponting noted, the fact that someone as talented as Gill can be left out of the World Cup squad is a testament to the strength and depth of Indian cricket. It highlights the incredible pool of talent that the country has at its disposal and the high standards that players must meet in order to be selected for the national team. While Gill’s omission may be disappointing for his fans and supporters, it is also a reminder of the intense competition and high expectations that exist in Indian cricket.
In the end, the decision to leave Gill out of the World Cup squad will be debated and analyzed by fans and experts alike. While some may agree with the selectors’ decision, others will continue to argue that Gill’s omission is a mistake. As for Ponting, his comments reflect the admiration and respect that he has for the young batsman, and his surprise at Gill’s exclusion is a testament to the high regard in which he is held.
As the T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, the Indian team will be looking to make a strong impression and bring home the coveted trophy. While Gill’s omission may be a setback for some fans, the team’s chances of success will depend on a variety of factors, including the form and performances of the players who have been selected. As Ponting noted, the depth and quality of Indian cricket are undeniable, and the team’s ability to compete with the best in the world will be on full display during the tournament.
In conclusion, Ricky Ponting’s comments on Shubman Gill’s omission from the Indian T20 World Cup squad reflect the surprise and disappointment that many fans and experts have felt at the decision. While the selectors may have their reasons for leaving Gill out, it is difficult to argue with Ponting’s assertion that the young batsman’s exclusion is a reflection of the depth and quality of Indian cricket. As the cricket world looks on, one thing is certain – the T20 World Cup 2026 will be an exciting and unpredictable tournament, and the Indian team will be one of the teams to watch.
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