Mentally, playing for India will be different but I'm ready: Shubman Gill

Indian cricket has been going through a stir of controversies off the field. Following the suspension of Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul, the BCCI roped in Vijay Shankar for the ongoing ODI series against Australia. On the other hand, they also added Shubman Gill for the limited overs series against New Zealand. The youngster has been in terrific form in the Ranji Trophy.

However, no one had expected a call up in the national team for the 19-year-old. Gill conceded that he was surprised by the selection but committed to giving his 100 percent when he gets the opportunity. He further spoke about how the experience in the U19 World Cup helped him deal with the media pressure.

Mentally, playing for India will be different but I’m ready

Less than a year ago, the U19 Indian team scripted history in New Zealand. Led by Prithvi Shaw, they went on to lift the U19 World Cup. Shubman Gill was a prominent member of the team with his batting exploits. Just a year later, Gill will be a part of another tour to New Zealand. This time for the Indian team.

“It is a big advantage to be picked for the New Zealand tour. I played well there in the U-19 World Cup and I can say that there isn’t much adjustment needed in the technique. If I get an opportunity, I will just need to handle the pressure that comes with playing for India. Mentally, it will be different for sure but I am ready.” Gill was quoted as saying in The Indian Express.

The call was unexpected but it was a special moment

Shubman Gill was over the moon as he heard about his selection in the Indian team. Describing the sequence of events, Gill was aware of the situation which led to his inclusion. However, at the same time, he was confident of performing well owing to some brilliant shows in the domestic circuit.

“It was late in the night. My heart started beating faster. The messages started pouring in and I rushed to tell my father. It was a special moment. The call was unexpected but I understand the circumstances in which I have been picked. I have a pretty set target in mind. I have done well at all the levels I have played in so far. That has given me the belief that I can also excel in international cricket,” said Gill.

“Definitely, I have gained maximum exposure from IPL and Ranji Trophy experience has also helped immensely. Though, it all started with the win in the U-19 World Cup where we experienced the media pressure for the first time. The atmosphere that is created during the U-19 World Cup does help you at higher levels,” added Gill.

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