India has been fortunate to witness a golden lineage of batting icons who carried the nation’s hopes with the bat. From Sunil Gavaskar paving the way as the country’s first batting superstar to Sachin Tendulkar redefining greatness, and Virat Kohli setting new benchmarks with his consistency, each era has produced a talisman. Now, many believe Shubman Gill is next in line to continue this rich legacy.

In a recent podcast, India’s T20I vice-captain Shubman Gill opened up about his inspirations. He revealed that his first cricketing idol was Sachin Tendulkar, the same player his father adored, which eventually led him to pursue the sport.

“I have had two idols. The first one was Sachin Tendulkar. He was my dad’s favorite, and I actually got into cricket because of him. Around 2011–2013, I really started to understand cricket — not just the skills, but the mental and tactical side of the game,” Shubman Gill said on Apple Music.

ALSO READ: Kris Srikkanth Issues Warning To Sanju Samson After Batting Order Shift In Asia Cup

As Sachin Tendulkar retired in 2013, Shubman Gill’s focus shifted toward Virat Kohli. What drew him in wasn’t just Kohli’s technique but the relentless passion and hunger that defined his batting.

“That was also the time I began following Virat Kohli closely. I loved watching the way he went about his business, the sheer passion he had for the game, and the hunger he carried. You can learn all the skills, but hunger is something you either have or you don’t. Virat had it in abundance, and that really inspired me,” he added.

ALSO READ: Ajinkya Rahane Backs Suryakumar Yadav’s Decision To Withdraw Appeal In Asia Cup

Gill, now emerging as one of India’s most promising batters, will have a key role in the Asia Cup 2025. In the opening clash against the UAE, he smashed an unbeaten 20 off just nine deliveries as India chased down 58 in only 4.3 overs. With Pakistan up next on September 14 in Dubai, all eyes will be on Gill to deliver against India’s fiercest rivals.