This stylish Indian player opens up on childhood match that sparked his cricket dream

India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has shared the life-changing moment that made him decide to pursue cricket as his career. Speaking on the Apple Music podcast, Gill recalled how, at just 11 years old, he stunned everyone in an Under-23 practice match back in 2010.

During a camp for U23 Indian fast bowlers, one team fell short of a batsman. Despite initial hesitation from coaches since Gill was half the age of the other players, his friend Kush Pri convinced them to let Gill play. Batting at number seven, young Shubman rose to the occasion after the top order collapsed, scoring an unbeaten 90 runs.

“That confidence, that feeling, made me realise this is what I am meant to do,” Gill said, calling it the decisive moment of his cricketing journey.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: BCCI faces mounting pressure over India vs Pakistan clash

Rise Through the Ranks

Gill’s early promise translated into strong performances for Punjab’s Under-16 and Under-19 teams. His elegant batting earned him the role of vice-captain in the 2018 Under-19 World Cup, where he was among India’s standout performers, helping secure the title.

He quickly graduated to senior cricket, shining in the Ranji Trophy and the IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders. His fearless strokeplay and maturity earned him a call-up to India’s Test squad in 2020, where his innings at the Gabba cemented his place.

The Next Big Leader?

Now a key opener across formats and leading India’s Test side, Gill is widely seen as the natural successor to Virat Kohli. From an 11-year-old boy scoring 90 in a practice match to vice-captain of India, Shubman Gill’s journey is proof that dreams can take flight at the most unexpected moments.