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"Shubman Gill Is My...": IPL Star Priyansh Arya Looks Up To India Test Captain As Red-Ball Hero

Soumyajit Dutta

Priyansh Arya and Shubman Gill [Source: @gillhypebot/X.com]Priyansh Arya and Shubman Gill [Source: @gillhypebot/X.com]

Priyansh Arya has carried his sensational IPL 2025 form into the Delhi Premier League (DPL), shattering records with his explosive batting. The Outer Delhi Warriors opener blasted a sensational 52-ball century against East Delhi Riders, becoming the first player in the tournament's history to score multiple tons. 

Beyond the white-ball frenzy, Priyansh Arya has clear aspirations to make his mark in first-class cricket and take on the challenge of the Ranji Trophy, as he is inspired by his idol, Shubman Gill.

Arya Idolises Shubman Gill in Red-Ball Cricket

Priyansh Arya eyes Ranji Trophy call-up after successful DPL and IPL stints as he wants to expand himself in other formats too. While eyeing red-ball cricket, Arya also mentioned Gill as the one he is looking upto.

“I’ve played a lot of red-ball cricket in U-19 and U-23 cricket. So it’s not something totally new to me. Of course, Ranji Trophy is tougher — conditions are different, matches start in the morning. It’s challenging, but that’s what makes it fun. Shubman Gill is my idol in red-ball cricket,” Arya said to India Today.

With his intentions clear, Arya is determined to ensure his journey is just beginning and that he will not be a one-dimensional player. Despite the increased attention after scoring 475 runs for Punjab Kings in the IPL, the southpaw revealed that he feels no added pressure and is solely focused on upping his game from last season.

“No, there wasn’t much pressure last year and even this year I didn’t feel it. I just wanted to perform better than last year. There are still three matches left, so I’ll try to bounce back in those,” Arya added.

Arya On Consistency And Form

Arya has accumulated 303 runs at a staggering strike rate of 166.48 this DPL season. While known for his explosiveness, the opener is now keen on adding consistency to his game, especially after his team's struggles.

“No, consistency is important. Of course, impactful innings look good if the team wins, but if we don’t win, then I know I need to focus more on consistency,” said Arya.

He also credited his successful IPL stint to the freedom granted by the Punjab Kings leadership, which allowed his natural game to flourish. He explained that both captains allowed him complete freedom to play his natural game, whether it was scoring quick runs or taking his time, as long as it served the team’s cause.