Shubman Gill [Source: @iamAshutoshh/X.com]
In a tense chase of 229, Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101 off 129 balls anchored India to a six-wicket victory against Bangladesh in a gripping ODI clash in the Champions Trophy. The 25-year-old’s patient yet authoritative knock, laced with nine fours and two sixes, rescued India from a precarious 144/4 and guided them home with 15 balls to spare.
Gill’s century, combined with KL Rahul’s unbeaten 35, sealed the win in a match where Bangladesh’s spinners threatened repeatedly and halted momentums during key moments, but ultimately fell short.
Gill’s grit amidst collapsing partnerships
India’s chase began briskly as Rohit Sharma (41 off 36) and Gill added 69 runs inside 10 overs. However, Bangladesh’s spinners, led by Rishad Hossain (2/38), triggered a middle-order collapse. Virat Kohli (22) and Shreyas Iyer (15) fell cheaply, while Axar Patel’s dismissal left India reeling at 144/4.
Gill, however, held firm, rotating strike intelligently and punishing loose deliveries. His ability to neutralize Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s tight lines (0/37 in 10 overs) during the middle overs proved pivotal, keeping the required rate manageable.
With India needing 85 off 97 balls, Shubman Gill found an able partner in KL Rahul. The duo blended caution with aggression, stitching an unbroken 81-run stand. Gill accelerated after crossing 80 and his century, completed with a flick for two off Mustafizur Rahman, was met with a roaring celebration as Rahul smashed the winning six moments later.
Netizens hail Gill's masterclass
Twitter erupted in praise for Gill, with fans and experts lauding his composure. Netizens highlighted his grit in steering the chase. As India celebrated the win, Gill’s knock solidified his reputation as cricket’s newest match-winner.
With Gill collecting praise, let's take a look at how netizens reacted to his masterclass:
"Really he is so beautiful to watch !! How can you even hate him guys ??!! It’s very sad Gill can’t reach or cross KOHLI’s tally and hundreds. Shubman Gill born to play this format . 💯🙏🏽Touch , shot making , finding gaps , temperament . Everything on point " - @06ramK
"Number 1 for a reason! Shubman Gill putting on a batting masterclass yet again!" - @RRCricBook
"Shubman Gill played a quality knock, adapting well to the conditions and pitch. 🫡🔥If Kohli had scored a 100 in 125 balls, the "intent merchants" would have been all over him with criticism." - @RSY_VK_01
"Shubman Gill is on fire! 🔥" - @ImTanujSingh
"Shubman Gill 🔥🔥" - @wittybinod
"Great innings by Shubman Gill....just needs to add consistency to his game from now on.." - @afc_vr
"Bow down 🙇Shubman consistent Gill❤️🩹" - @ShubiiiDevoteee
"One Sun 🌞 One Moon 🌝 One Shubman Gill 🐐 The Real Number 1 ODI Batsman !!" - @BoiesX45
India sealing the first win in Champions Trophy will be looking to make it to the semis as they meet an under-confident Pakistan in their upcoming fixture. The much-anticipated clash will take place in Dubai on February 23.