‘Would be great to play under Virat one day’

CHANDIGARH: Before the U -19 World Cup, not many were familiar with the batting prowess of Punjab’s top-order player Shubman Gill. However, his unbeaten 102 against Pakistan in the semi-final changed all that.

The 18-year-old Gill was not only named ‘Player of the Series’ for aggregating 372 runs in six matches in the tournament, he has been hailed as one of the most exciting prospects for India.

Gill’s strokeplay has been compared with that of India captain Virat. Back in India and playing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Punjab, Gill talks about his best moment in the World Cup.

Excerpts:

How do you rate your performance in the World Cup? What was the highlight for you?

We had prepared for the World Cup for two years under Rahul Dravid sir. A lot had gone into the preparations from his end and from our side. We all had dreamt to lay our hands on the World Cup. Beating Australia in the final to lift the title was a long cherished dream coming true. I am happy I could deliver for my team. Winning the World Cup was definitely special, but scoring 102 against Pakistan will always be close to myheart.

Your batting has been compared to Virat Kohli’s. What do you feel?

He is my idol. Cricketers of this generation look up to him and wanttobelike him. I too emulate him for his skills andfitness. I have a long way to go and I should not be compared to him. It would be great to play under him one day.

You’ve bagged a ~1.8 crore contract with KKR, become a crorepatiat18?

I was sleeping when the auction was going on in India. When I woke up my Whatsapp was flooded with texts. I was taken by surprise. KKR are one of my favourite teams. My father handles my finances, so I am not thinking about the money part yet. But yes, playing in IPL would be big for me.

Dravid has been a big influence on you since he became the U19 team coach...

India could not have won the World Cup without him. He is a brilliant coach and an inspiration. Cricketers of other teams also made it a point to say hello to him in New Zealand. He has this aura which brings out the best in others.

What roadmap have you chalked out for the coming months?

Playing Ranji Trophy matches raised my confidence. I want to deliver the goods for KKR and then aim for an India A berth.

You have been away from home for a month...

After Vijay Hazare Trophy ends, I will go to my village with my parents and celebrate with my grandparents.