'Don't underestimate Shubman Gill, he can dominate T20Is too' - Former India spinner's message to selectors ahead of Asia Cup 2025

Published - 19 Aug 2025, 11:01 IST | Updated - 19 Aug 2025, 11:12 IST

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh feels Shubman Gill holds the ability to adapt to any format. His remarks come amid reports of Gill's exclusion from Asia Cup squad. It has been more than a year since Gill last featured in a T20I.

Harbhajan elaborated on Gill's strong fundamentals serving as an essential factor behind his adaptability in the 20-over format. The veteran also shed light on Gill's consistent performances in the Indian Premier League.

“In the T20 format, it’s important to understand that it’s not just about big hitting. If Shubman decides to attack, he can match anyone, because he is a very solid player with strong basics. A batter with such a strong foundation can score runs in any format. If you look at the IPL, Shubman has scored runs every season. He has worn the Orange Cap — and that doesn’t happen by chance. And it’s not like he bats only at a strike rate of 120 or 130; he can also bat at a strike rate of 160," stated Harbhajan, as quoted by The Times of India.

The 45-year-old remarked that other than playing at a brisk rate and helping the team in accelerating, Gill also possesses the key trait of playing the anchoring innings whenever required

"Yes, we do have players like Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma, but you cannot undermine or underestimate Shubman Gill. He is a very talented batter who can adapt to any format. He is an all-format player. In my opinion, he can play T20s and even dominate the format. We as fans are used to seeing fours and sixes every ball, but you also need batters who can play long innings and rescue the team when required,” he added.

There have been questions regarding Gill's place in India's Asia Cup squad. Nonetheless, he is in contention of being a part of the Indian setup. Gill has 578 runs in 21 T20Is so far.