A new era in Indian cricket is unfolding with the rise of a young star whose style, reliability, and growing leadership have won hearts everywhere. Shubman Gill, fondly known as the “Prince of Cricket,” has quickly climbed the ladder to establish himself as one of the brightest talents on the global stage.
Introduction to Cricket
Shubman Gill was born on September 8, 1999, in Fazilka, Punjab. From the age of three, he showed a natural love for cricket, often copying batting shots. His father, Lakhwinder Singh, a farmer, noticed his talent early and supported him with strict practice sessions, even waking him up at 3 a.m. to train.
At the age of 12, Shubman’s potential was evident when he faced Under-19 bowlers in a camp, impressing former Indian cricketer Karsan Ghavri. Recognizing his talent, Ghavri recommended that Shubman be included in the Punjab Under-14 team, marking the beginning of his formal cricketing journey.
Rise Through the Ranks
Under-19 Stardom
Shubman’s breakthrough came in 2018 when he captained the Indian Under-19 team to victory in the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Amassing 372 runs in the tournament, he was named the Player of the Tournament. His standout performance came in the semi-final against Pakistan, where he scored an unbeaten 102*, a knock that drew praise from cricketing legends like Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar.
Domestic Cricket
Following his success at the junior level, Shubman made his List A debut for Punjab in the 2016-17 Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring a half-century in his second match. His first-class debut came in the 2017-18 Ranji Trophy against Bengal, where he showcased his prowess with a century. These performances solidified his position in domestic cricket and paved the way for his entry into the national team.
International Debut and Achievements
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
Shubman made his ODI debut for India in January 2019 against New Zealand. He quickly established himself as a reliable opener, known for his stylish stroke play and composure under pressure. In 2023, he became the fastest player to reach 2,000 and 2,500 runs in ODIs, achieving these milestones in 38 and 50 innings, respectively.
A highlight of his ODI career came in January 2023 when he became the youngest cricketer to score a double century in ODIs, amassing 208 runs against New Zealand. This feat underscored his ability to play long, impactful innings.
Test Cricket
Shubman’s Test debut came in December 2020 during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. He played a pivotal role in India’s historic series win, scoring crucial runs, including a vital 91 at the Gabba. His maiden Test century came in December 2022 against Bangladesh, further cementing his status as a top-order batsman.
In 2025, Shubman achieved a remarkable feat at Edgbaston, scoring 269 runs in the first innings and 161 in the second, totaling 430 runs in a single Test match. This performance placed him among cricketing legends like Graham Gooch and Brian Lara.
T20 Internationals (T20Is)
Shubman made his T20I debut in January 2023 against Sri Lanka. He quickly adapted to the format, becoming the fifth Indian to score a century in all three formats of international cricket. His aggressive batting style and ability to accelerate the innings have made him a valuable asset in the shortest format.
Leadership and Captaincy
In May 2025, following the retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, Shubman was appointed as India’s 37th Test captain. At 25, he became one of the youngest to lead the national team, a testament to his leadership qualities and maturity.
His captaincy was further highlighted during the 2025 Test series against England, where he led India to a commanding position at Headingley, scoring a century and showcasing tactical acumen.
Playing Style and Technique
Shubman is renowned for his classical technique, characterized by a solid defense and elegant stroke play. His ability to play both pace and spin with equal ease, combined with a calm demeanor, makes him a formidable presence at the crease. His adaptability across formats speaks volumes about his versatility and cricketing intelligence.
Records and Achievements
- Fastest to 2,000 and 2,500 ODI runs (38 and 50 innings, respectively).
- Youngest to score a double century in ODIs (208 runs against New Zealand).
- First Indian to score a century in all three formats of international cricket.
- Record for the most sixes by an Indian captain in a Test inning.
- Named ICC Men’s Player of the Month four times (January 2023, September 2023, February 2025, July 2025).
Personal Life
Beyond the cricket field, Shubman is known for his humility and dedication. He shares a close bond with his family, especially his father, who continues to be his pillar of support. Shubman’s journey from the fields of Fazilka to the grand stadiums of international cricket is a testament to his hard work, determination, and passion for the game.
Future Prospects
At just 26, Shubman Gill’s career is on an upward trajectory. With his blend of technique, temperament, and leadership, he is poised to lead India into a new era of cricketing excellence. As he continues to break records and set new benchmarks, the cricketing world watches eagerly to witness the unfolding of this young maestro’s journey.
Shubman Gill’s story is not just about runs and records; it’s about passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. As the “Prince of Indian Cricket,” he embodies the hopes and aspirations of a nation, and his legacy is just beginning to take shape.
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