Indian cricketer Shubman Gill has shared his favorite memories from the India-Pakistan rivalry ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19. In a special segment of Disney+ Hotstar’s ‘Inside Outbwith Gill,’ he opined on Team India’s stunning win over Pakistan in the 2011 ODI World Cup semi-final as well.
He said, “The best memory I have is the semi-final of the 2011 ODI World Cup in Mohali. I remember stepping out of the house and seeing fireworks everywhere, which was something very special.”
He also shared his experience playing against Pakistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup in Ahmedabad. He also described it as a one-of-a-kind moment, unlike anything he had ever faced, with the palpable pressure and excitement over the match as well.
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He shared: “[From the 2023 ODI World Cup] Playing in Ahmedabad in a packed stadium, the atmosphere was so electric. It’s difficult to describe that feeling because when you’re there, you haven’t experienced anything like it very often. It’s hard to put that feeling into words, but someone in the team had said that we play two finals — one against Pakistan and the actual final. After winning that match, it was like we have won one final.”
Reflecting on the 2017 final, he said: “Everyone knows that the last time we played the Champions Trophy, they beat us in the final. But I believe we played well in that edition, and personally, I don’t think one game can define what kind of team you are.”
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Shubman Gill also shared his thoughts on batting alongside the legendary duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He revealed that while each partnership is unique, playing with both of them has been an enjoyable experience so far as well.
“The way I play ODI cricket is a mix of Rohit Bhai and Virat Bhai. When I’m batting with Rohit Bhai, the conversations we have are always very simple. We assess the pitch, and sometimes targeting certain bowlers is easier for me, while other times, it’s easier for Rohit Bhai. I think this awareness is very important. When I bat with Virat Bhai, it’s all about singles, doubles, and keeping the momentum going — that’s how he likes to stay in the game. Batting with both of them is a bit different, but it’s really enjoyable with both of them,” Shubman Gill concluded.
