Saba Karim expects Shubman Gill to be India's reserve opener in 2023 WC

In the absence of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill latched on to the opportunity of opening the innings for India on their recent Zimbabwe tour. 

Shubman Gill in action in 1st ODI vs Zimbabwe

Gill, who is known for his stylish and eye-pleasing shots, scored an unbeaten 82 in Team India's 10-wicket victory over the hosts in the first ODI yesterday.

Former Indian player Saba Karim believes Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener, keeping in mind next year's 50-overs World Cup in India. The former chief selector maintained that Gill has the technique to play all three formats going forward. 

"India's selectors and team management are looking for a backup opener for the 2023 World Cup. Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan will serve as front-line openers, while Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener,"

"It is very difficult to play across three formats with the right technique, but Gill possesses all those elements."

The Under-19 World Cup winner started the year on the right foot, amassing 483 runs for the Gujarat Titans franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Since then, Gill has been phenomenal in the ODIs, garnering 287 runs at an outstanding average of 143.50.

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