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With reports suggesting Shubman Gill’s return to the Indian T20I side for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, the debate over his adaptability in the shortest format has intensified. Gill, who last featured in T20Is in July 2021, had even served as vice-captain. However, with stiff competition at the top order, he has been sidelined in recent years.
Harbhajan Backs Gill’s Versatility
Amid concerns that Gill may not fit into India’s new aggressive T20 template, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has come out in strong support of the young opener. “T20 is not just about big hitting. Gill has strong basics and, if he decides to attack, he can match anyone. Look at his IPL record, he has scored consistently, even won the Orange Cap. That doesn’t happen by chance,” Harbhajan told Times of India.
All-Format Batter
Harbhajan further argued that Gill should not be underestimated when compared with explosive batters like Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, or Tilak Varma. “He is an all-format player who can adapt quickly. Gill can dominate T20s too. Fans love fours and sixes, but you also need players who can anchor innings and rescue the team when needed,” he said.
Impressive Numbers
Gill’s T20I stats include 21 matches, 578 runs, an average of 30.42 and a strike rate of 139.27, with one century and three fifties. His IPL 2025 season was outstanding, 650 runs in 15 innings at a strike rate of 155.87, featuring six half-centuries.
At just 25, Gill has already scored centuries in all three formats, and Harbhajan believes his best in T20Is is yet to come.
