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Shubman Gill Faces Backlash from Fans Over ‘Prince’ Engraving on His Bat Ahead of England Series
By CricShots - Jun 12, 2025 4:31 pm
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Star India batter and newly appointed Test captain Shubman Gill has found himself in the spotlight for reasons beyond his cricketing skills. Ahead of the high-stakes England tour, Gill posed for a special captain’s photoshoot organised by the BCCI, proudly wearing the Indian Test blazer and cap.

Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill

But what grabbed more attention than the symbolic attire was the bat in his hand – it featured the word “Prince” boldly engraved on the back. Shubman Gill, often dubbed the “Prince of Indian cricket” by fans and commentators alike, seemingly embraced the moniker with this subtle branding on his willow. The bat, which he had already used during IPL 2025, is now set to make its international debut.

However, the move hasn’t gone down well with a section of fans who have criticised the 25-year-old for what they perceive as premature self-glorification. Many believe the title should be earned with long-term success, not self-proclaimed ahead of a career-defining Test series.

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Having recently taken over the reins of India’s Test side after Rohit Sharma’s retirement, Gill faces the massive challenge of leading a young team in one of the toughest cricketing environments – England. So far, his Test record in England is modest, with just 88 runs from three matches and a highest score of 28. This tour is his opportunity to turn that around.

Despite the criticism, Shubman Gill enters the series in exceptional form. As captain of the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025, he was the fourth-highest run-scorer, amassing 650 runs in 15 innings at an average of 50, including six half-centuries. His opening partner at GT, Sai Sudharsan, was the tournament’s leading scorer with 759 runs.

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Both have been rewarded with Test call-ups and are expected to carry their blistering IPL form into the England series. India’s five-match Test series kicks off on June 20 at Headingley. With an 18-year wait for a Test series win in England hanging over the team, Gill’s leadership and performance, with or without the “Prince” title, will be under intense scrutiny.

 

 

 

 

 

Tags Bat EngravingFans ReactionIndia vs. EnglandPrince Bat ControversyShubman GillTest series