For Shubman Gill, the biggest and most valuable birthday gift came after four days — the call-up to the Indian Test squad for the series against South Africa.
The 20-year-old Punjab batsman celebrated his birthday on the eve of his captaincy debut against the visiting South Africa-A, on Sept. 8.
Dream debut
Gill had a dream debut as captain, leading India-A to a seven-wicket win against South Africa-A. But even after the victory, the youngster had looked a tad disappointed for having missed out on a century. It is now a thing of the past as he has broken into the Test squad for the first time.
“Getting selected into the Test squad is a big thing for any youngster like me. I am excited. I wouldn’t say I wasn’t expecting it. But these are certain things which you don’t want to bother you when you are playing. Honestly I was focused on what I was doing on the cricket field,” he said.
“The India-A captaincy was a big honour for me. I have been learning all the time. This has been a new experience for me. I should thank the selectors for having faith in me,” he added.
The India-A coach Sitanshu Kotak wasn’t surprised with Gill’s selection. “The selectors had something in their mind when they made him the captain of the ‘A’ side.
“He did a good job and showed maturity as captain. I would be lying if I say I am surprised at his selection. He has been scoring runs in all forms of cricket, so he deserves it,” the former Saurashtra batsman said.
