“I have known him since…”: Shubman Gill to reunite with an old childhood mate in India vs UAE Asia Cup 2025 showdown

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When India will face UAE in their Asia Cup 2025 opener at Dubai International Stadium on Wednesday, the match will feature a unique subplot that transcends cricket’s traditional boundaries. UAE’s left-arm spinner will come face-to-face with his childhood acquaintance Shubman Gill, rekindling memories from the Punjab Cricket Association nets in Mohali where their paths first crossed over a decade ago.

The 35-year-old from Ludhiana distinctly remembers a talented 12-year-old who would arrive for training sessions accompanied by his father around 2011-12.

“I have known Shubman since he was a kid but I don’t know if he remembers me,” UAE’s Simranjeet Singh revealed with characteristic modesty. Those early morning sessions at the PCA Academy between 6am to 11am saw Simranjeet extending his practice routine, often bowling extensively to the young Gill who would arrive as the senior players concluded their training

The upcoming encounter represents more than just another international fixture for both players. While Gill returns to India’s T20I setup as vice-captain after impressive Test performances in England, Simranjeet his old friend from Punjab enters the Asia Cup with 15 wickets from 12 T20Is at an economy rate under six. His recent performance against Afghanistan yielded respectable figures of 1/24 with 11 dot balls, demonstrating his ability to trouble quality opposition.

UAE’s coach Lalchand Rajput praised Simranjeet’s craftsmanship, emphasizing his willingness to flight the ball consistently in T20 cricket where most spinners prioritize containment over wicket-taking. This approach aligns perfectly with UAE’s strategy against India’s formidable batting lineup that includes Gill alongside Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma.

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Simranjeet’s journey to international cricket reads like a testament to perseverance against overwhelming odds. After years of toiling in Punjab’s district cricket and making it to Ranji Trophy probable in 2017, his dreams of representing India seemed increasingly distant. The COVID-19 pandemic became an unexpected catalyst when he travelled to Dubai for a brief coaching stint in April 2021, only to find himself stranded when India’s massive second wave triggered lockdowns.

What began as a temporary arrangement evolved into permanent residency as Simranjeet discovered opportunities in UAE’s domestic cricket structure. After completing his three-year qualification period, he directly approached UAE head coach with a simple request for a trial. His persistence paid dividends as Rajput recognized his traditional left-arm spinning qualities, noting his ability to give the ball flight and revolutions rather than merely containing batters.

The match carries additional significance as UAE participates in their first Asia Cup since 2016, with six Indian-origin players including Simranjeet in their 17-member squad. As the tournament unfolds, this David versus Goliath encounter will be remembered not just for its result, but for the human story of two cricketers whose childhood connection now plays out on international cricket’s biggest stage.

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