Shubman arrives to a hero’s welcome

Deepankar Sharda

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 16

ICC U-19 World Cup star Shubman Gill returned to a grand welcome here today.  The 18-year-old, who had left directly to represent Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy after the U-19 World Cup win in New Zealand, was received by family members, relatives and neighbours at his Mohali home.    

"It feels so good and different to be back, this time. Everyone is happy and proud. It's a different feeling, which cannot be explained through words. One can see the happiness in my parents' eyes," Gill said while thanking his parents for all the support.

Gill attributed the win to the entire team, but maintained that it was a golden opportunity for him, which he grabbed with both hands. He also thanked former India cricketer and coach Rahul Dravid for the team's success.   "It will be fair to say that I was very nervous. But things went good. As an individual, I have learnt a lot there. We were lucky to have a coach like Rahul Dravid," said Gill. 

"There was a different environment. I lost my wicket on zero in the first practice match but I had the confidence in my ability. Even Dravid sir asked me to stick to my natural game and play with confidence. After that, I got into the flow and played well." 

On his match-winning 102-run knock against Pakistan in the semifinal, Gill said it was a day to remember. He also said his innings was the outcome of the sledging he faced by the opponents.

"We got a good start but we lost track with loss of wickets. I was nervous before reaching the crease. But the sledging by Pakistani players prompted me to stay rooted and play my natural game," he recalled. 

"During the innings, Dravid sir came to me and asked me to play till the last ball which was more than a confidence booster. I have improved my mental strength under Dravid sir, which is really important at this phase of life," he added.

Gill is also excited to play in his first IPL for the Kolkata Knight Riders. "It will be a tough challenge. I have never played any big T-20 championship. I am looking forward to get a chance and learn from this platform. I am nervous, but it won't put any bad effect on my game," Gill said.

Even in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Gill scored a match winning 123 against Karnataka. "It was a good feeling to play among the seniors. I had earlier shared dressing room with Yuvi paji . But this time things were different. There was more expectations and responsibility," Gill said. 

He further said the seniors welcomed him with a cake-cutting ceremony and also advised him to stay calm in the middle.

Virat Kohli, a real role model

When asked about his attacking game, Gill said it’s important for a player to adapt to different conditions. “…like Virat Kohli adapts to different situations. This is really important for a player. I also think on similar lines. I like to play fast, but again adapting as per the situation is something I am focusing on.” 

First Class cricket/India-A in mind

After playing in the IPL, Gill said he would like to play first class cricket and also represent India-A. "As suggested by seniors and my father, I would like to play in the first class cricket and also India-A, to clear my base for the senior team. There is no doubt about my intentions to play for the senior side. However, before that I need to prepare well," he said.

Gill will be now preparing for his class XII examination, starting from February 28, informed his father and coach Lakwinder Singh.