Indian selectors took a clear-eyed call ahead of the T20 World Cup, leaving out Shubman Gill while recalling Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh in a squad shaped around impact, versatility and defined roles rather than reputation.
Gill’s omission was the most striking decision to emerge from the selection meeting in Mumbai. While not entirely unexpected given his recent returns, the call underlined the team management’s growing preference for explosive starts and situational specialists in the shortest format. Axar Patel was named vice-captain in a further signal of the leadership group’s trust in all-round options.
Despite his consistency across Tests and ODIs, Gill has struggled to cement a role in T20Is, particularly at the top of the order. Concerns over powerplay strike rate and the rise of more aggressive alternatives weighed heavily. His modest returns of 4, 0 and 28 in the recent series against South Africa did little to strengthen his case.
“Shubman Gill is short of runs at the moment and missed last WC too,” chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar said at the press conference.
Kishan’s return reflects a renewed emphasis on left-right combinations and wicketkeeper-batters capable of setting the tone early. After a prolonged absence due to fitness and availability issues, the left-hander forced his way back with a prolific Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign, steering Jharkhand to the title with a match-winning century.
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“It’s not about Gill’s form. We wanted to have a keeper at the top,” captain Suryakumar Yadav said.
Kishan’s inclusion meant Yashasvi Jaiswal missed out, while Jitesh Sharma also lost his place. India have doubled down on firepower through the middle, with Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar, Tilak Varma and Kishan forming a high-impact batting core, complemented by Rinku Singh’s specialist finishing skills.
All-round depth remains central. Hardik Pandya anchors the balance, supported by Shivam Dube’s hitting against spin and the Axar–Washington Sundar pairing offering control, flexibility and batting depth.
The bowling attack blends experience and intent. Jasprit Bumrah leads the pace unit alongside Arshdeep Singh, with Harshit Rana included as a long-term option. Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy will handle spin duties through the middle overs.
India open their campaign against the United States on February 7, followed by matches against Namibia, Pakistan and the Netherlands.
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