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 23-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 World Cup squad. However, the selectors had other ideas, and Gill was left out of the 15-man squad. One person who couldn’t believe this decision was former Australian captain Ricky Ponting.
Ponting, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest captains in cricket history, expressed his surprise at Gill’s omission from the squad. “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 highlight the incredible talent pool that India has at its disposal, but also raise questions about the selectors’ decision-making process.
Gill, who has been opening the batting for India in recent times, has been in phenomenal form, scoring runs consistently across formats. His technique, temperament, and ability to play match-winning innings have made him a fan favorite, and many believed that he would be an integral part of India’s T20 World Cup campaign. However, the selectors opted for other players, leaving Gill to ponder what could have been.
Ponting’s comments are a testament to Gill’s abilities as a cricketer. The former Australian captain has always been known for his astute understanding of the game, and his opinion carries significant weight in cricketing circles. By expressing his surprise at Gill’s omission, Ponting has added fuel to the debate surrounding the Indian team’s squad selection.
The Indian team’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 has been subject to intense scrutiny, with many experts and fans questioning the selectors’ decisions. While some have praised the inclusion of certain players, others have criticized the omission of players like Gill, who were expected to play a key role in the tournament. The debate surrounding the squad selection has sparked a heated discussion, with many arguing that the selectors have missed a trick by leaving out Gill.
Despite the controversy surrounding his omission, Gill has taken the news in stride, stating that he will continue to work hard and focus on his game. The young batsman has already shown a remarkable ability to bounce back from setbacks, and it is likely that he will use this experience to come back stronger and more determined than ever.
The T20 World Cup 2026 is expected to be a highly competitive tournament, with several teams vying for the top prize. India, who have a strong squad despite the omission of Gill, will be one of the favorites to win the tournament. However, the absence of Gill will be felt, and it remains to be seen how the team will cope without his services.
In conclusion, Ricky Ponting’s comments on Shubman Gill’s omission from the Indian T20 World Cup squad have sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the selectors’ decision-making process. While Ponting’s surprise at Gill’s omission is understandable, it also highlights the incredible depth of Indian cricket. The young batsman’s exclusion from the squad may have been a surprise, but it is also a testament to the talent pool that India has at its disposal.
As the T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, the Indian team will be looking to make a strong impression and bring home the trophy. While the absence of Gill will be felt, the team has a strong squad and will be confident of making a deep run in the tournament. As for Gill, he will be looking to use this experience as a motivation to come back stronger and more determined than ever.
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