As the T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, the Indian cricket team faces crucial decisions regarding its squad composition, particularly at the top of the order. Shubman Gill's recent performances in T20Is have sparked debate about his role in the team, raising questions about whether his inclusion is hindering the team's vision for the tournament.
Gill's return to the T20I squad for the Asia Cup 2025 after a year-long absence was marked by his appointment as vice-captain. This decision seemingly solidified his place in the team. However, his performance since then has been inconsistent. In his last ten innings, Gill has only managed to score 170 runs at an average of 24.14, with a strike rate of 148.24. These numbers are a cause for concern, especially considering his role as an opener.
His struggles were evident during the Asia Cup 2025, where he scored 127 runs in seven matches at an average of 21.17. While he showed glimpses of his potential, like his 47 off 28 against Pakistan, he failed to maintain consistency. This pattern of inconsistency has raised questions about his ability to translate his undeniable talent into impactful T20I performances.
Critics argue that Gill's T20I strike rate, which hovers in the mid-140s, is not sufficient compared to modern powerplay specialists. Despite his impressive form in the IPL 2025, he has struggled to replicate that success on the international stage. This has led to calls for exploring alternative options for the opening slot.
One such alternative is Sanju Samson, whose T20I opening credentials cannot be ignored. However, Samson's exclusion from recent matches has also drawn criticism. While he has been in exceptional form over the last 12 months, he was left out of the playing XI, which may have been a forced move. Some argue that Samson isn't a natural lower middle-order batter in T20Is.
The team management's decision to appoint Gill as vice-captain has also been questioned, with some claiming that it has disrupted the team's balance. Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has openly criticized the decision, suggesting that it has blocked opportunities for other deserving players like Yashasvi Jaiswal. Srikkanth argues that Jaiswal, with his outstanding record in all formats and the IPL, deserves a chance in the T20I setup.
Irfan Pathan, the 2007 T20 World Cup winner, has also weighed in on the debate, stating that Gill needs to perform consistently to justify the opportunities he is getting. Pathan pointed out that Gill replaced Samson, who had scored three centuries as an opener, to open for India in T20Is. He added that the pressure will build on Gill if he doesn't start converting his potential into performances, especially with players like Jaiswal waiting in the wings.
With the T20 World Cup 2026 on home soil, India cannot afford to make sentiment-driven selections. While Gill's long-term value across formats is not in question, T20 cricket demands phase-specific excellence. His struggles against quality new-ball bowling raise legitimate questions about his optimal position in the team. As the clock ticks down to the World Cup, the team management must decide whether to persist with Gill or prioritize immediate success by selecting a specialist opener who is ready to perform.
