Kishan replaces Gill in India’s T20 World Cup
Kishan replaces Gill in India’s T20 World Cup: India has announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. To be played at home and in Sri Lanka early next year. The selection reveals a significant change at the top. With in-form wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan returning. As out-of-form star Shubman Gill is left out.
Why Gill Missed Out?
Current Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill has been dropped from the T20 setup. The decision comes after a prolonged lean patch where he failed to score a fifty in his last 18 T20 International innings. A foot injury also caused him to miss the recent match against South Africa, opening the door for others.
Sanju Sharma, who replaced Gill as opener, made a strong case for himself with a quick 37 runs, showing the aggressive intent the selectors are seeking.
Kishan’s Stunning Comeback
Ishan Kishan has forcefully reclaimed his spot with outstanding domestic performances. His leadership and batting were central to Jharkhand’s victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He capped the campaign with a match-winning century in Friday’s final, making his selection unavoidable.
Squad Balance and Leadership
The team will be led by Suryakumar Yadav, with all-rounder Axar Patel as his deputy. The bowling attack looks potent, featuring the pace of Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, alongside spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy.
A key player for India’s title defence will be seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya. Whose experience is seen as vital. This same squad will prepare for the World Cup by playing a five-match T20 series at home against New Zealand next month.
Full Squad: Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (Vice-Captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, Ishan Kishan (WK).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why was Shubman Gill dropped from the T20 World Cup squad?
Gill was dropped primarily due to a lack of runs in T20 Internationals. Having gone 18 consecutive innings without a half-century. A recent foot injury also limited his opportunities to regain form before selection.
2. What did Ishan Kishan do to earn his recall?
Kishan earned his recall through exceptional performance in India’s domestic T20 tournament. He led Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title and scored a brilliant century in the final, demonstrating both form and leadership.
3. When and where is the T20 World Cup 2025 being held?
The tournament will be held between February 7 and March 8, 2025. Across eight venues in India and Sri Lanka. India will enter the competition as the defending champions.
