In a stunning development on Saturday, India's T20I vice-captain Shubman Gill received a major setback when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the 15-member squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2026. Gill's exclusion came as a surprise to many, especially given his recent promotion to the role of deputy under Suryakumar Yadav and his assignment as an opener alongside Abhishek Sharma.
Nevertheless, the selection committee headed by Ajit Agarkar pressed the panic button following Gill's inconsistent performances in the shortest format and opted to hand the second opening position to Sanju Samson.
Although speculation had been mounting regarding Gill's place in the playing XI ahead of Samson, few anticipated that he would be omitted from the squad altogether. According to a report in the Indian Express, Gill was not informed of his exclusion from the T20 squad until the official announcement on Saturday. However, the BCCI selection committee had finalised the decision several days earlier.
Why Was Shubman Gill Dropped?
As detailed in the report, the characteristics of the pitches prepared for the T20 World Cup 2026 were a significant factor in the decision-making process. Since India will play each match at a different venue, the surfaces are anticipated to become slower as the tournament advances. Consequently, scoring rapidly in the powerplay overs will be vital in determining match outcomes.
The selectors, therefore, placed greater confidence in the explosive capabilities of Samson, Abhishek, and Ishan Kishan at the top order to fulfil this requirement compared to Gill. This proved to be the decisive area where Gill fell short against the trio.
Additionally, with India's dependence on Hardik Pandya as the primary finisher having been highlighted as a vulnerability in recent matches, the selectors concluded that recalling Rinku Singh was essential. Rinku is anticipated to share the burden with Hardik in the finishing role.
Also read: India U-19 to face Pak in Asia Cup final
Official Verdict On Gill's Exclusion
Ishan Kishan was included as the reserve opener and wicketkeeper, owing to his outstanding displays for Jharkhand in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Gill's form, fitness, and scoring rate appear to have impacted his chances, yet BCCI selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar stated that the batsman was omitted primarily due to 'combinations'.
"You're looking at combinations at the moment. Someone has to miss out when you take 15. And unfortunately, it's him (Gill). It's not because he's not a good player," he had said in the press conference.
Also Read: Gill dropped, Axar named vice-captain for T20 World Cup
Follow us
