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Shubman Gill, often regarded as one of India’s most promising young batters, has come under heavy criticism following his lackluster performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia. Gill’s inability to deliver in challenging conditions has sparked a debate, with former cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath making bold claims about favoritism in Indian cricket.
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Gill’s Struggles in BGT 2024-25
In the five-match Test series against Australia, which India lost 3-1, Gill managed to score just 93 runs in five innings, raising concerns about his adaptability and intent in the longest format. Critics, including Badrinath, have pointed out that Gill’s lack of application in tough conditions has left the Indian team vulnerable at the top of the order.
Badrinath’s Explosive Comments
During an appearance on Star Sports Tamil, Subramaniam Badrinath did not hold back in criticizing Gill, both for his batting and his overall contribution to the team.
On Favoritism in Indian Cricket
Badrinath controversially claimed that if Gill hailed from Tamil Nadu, he would have been dropped from the Indian team after such a dismal showing.
“If this was Shubman Gill from Tamil Nadu, he would have been dropped. It is very difficult for me to see this. For that level, he has not lived up to expectations,” said Badrinath.
Lack of Grit and Adaptability
Badrinath emphasized that Gill failed to show the grit and determination required at the international level. Drawing comparisons with Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan McSweeney, who played defensive yet impactful innings, he criticized Gill for not tiring out bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah or holding the innings together.
“You can get runs; you cannot, but there should have been intent and aggression. Help your teammates and stand firm even if runs are not coming. This is what your team contribution [is supposed to be].”
Fielding and Overall Value Under Scrutiny
Gill’s underwhelming performances weren’t limited to his batting. Badrinath also questioned his fielding, noting that Gill struggled in slip positions and at point, areas crucial for Test matches.
“Even on the field, he was poor. He couldn’t stay in slip and point. What does he contribute to the team?”
Politics in Team Selection?
Badrinath’s comments have reignited discussions about regional biases in Indian cricket. Historically, players from cricketing powerhouses like Mumbai, Delhi, and Punjab have often been perceived to receive more opportunities and backing compared to players from southern states like Tamil Nadu.
The statement, “If this was Shubman Gill from Tamil Nadu, he would have been dropped,” has sparked debate among fans and experts alike about whether Indian cricket’s selection process is truly meritocratic.
What’s Next for Shubman Gill?
Despite the criticism, Gill’s talent and potential are undeniable. However, as India prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, his place in the squad could come under serious threat if he doesn’t bounce back in the upcoming ODI series against England.
For Gill, this is a moment of reckoning—a chance to prove that he belongs at the highest level, regardless of the controversies surrounding his selection. Whether he can silence his critics and reclaim his form remains to be seen.
The debate over favoritism in Indian cricket isn’t new, but Gill’s case highlights the complexities of balancing talent, performance, and regional representation in a diverse nation like India. Only time will tell whether this storm will pass or leave a lasting impact on the dynamics of Indian cricket.
