Team India’s preparations for the Asia Cup 2025 took an unexpected turn when star opener Shubman Gill was clean bowled by a local net bowler during a practice session ahead of the tournament opener against UAE. The incident, though routine in the world of cricket, has drawn attention given Gill’s status as one of India’s most dependable young batsmen.
The Incident That Sparked Buzz
During India’s net session in Dubai, Gill faced a spell from a local fast bowler brought in to simulate UAE’s bowling attack. In one delivery, the bowler managed to sneak the ball past Gill’s defense, uprooting his stumps. The moment was quickly picked up by fans and journalists at the ground, with clips circulating on social media within minutes.
While such dismissals are commonplace in practice matches, the timing — just days before India’s campaign opener — added a layer of intrigue. Fans expressed both concern and amusement, with some joking that if local bowlers can rattle Gill, opposition sides might sense a weakness.
Gill’s Current Form
Shubman Gill has been a pillar in India’s top order, particularly in ODIs, where his consistency and elegant stroke play have drawn comparisons to Virat Kohli in his early days. However, he has also faced criticism for being vulnerable to deliveries that nip back in sharply. The clean bowled dismissal in nets only reignited discussions about whether Gill has fully adapted to such challenges.
Team India’s Perspective
Team sources downplayed the incident, clarifying that net practice is designed to push players to their limits. Facing unknown bowlers often helps batters adjust to unorthodox angles and variations. Coaches stressed that Gill appeared in good touch overall, striking several crisp boundaries during the same session.
“Net dismissals don’t define form,” a support staff member was quoted as saying. “In fact, it’s better to make mistakes here and learn, rather than in the middle of a high-stakes Asia Cup game.”
Fans React Online
The dismissal quickly trended on social platforms. While some users criticized Gill for his “carelessness,” others defended him, reminding critics that even greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli have fallen to local bowlers in the nets. A few even suggested that the bowler who dismissed Gill deserves recognition for rattling one of India’s premier batsmen.
Looking Ahead
India will begin their Asia Cup 2025 journey against UAE, a team known for its spirited performances. Gill is expected to open the innings alongside Rohit Sharma, and fans will be eager to see how he responds after the much-discussed net session dismissal.
Shubman Gill’s clean bowled moment in practice may have set tongues wagging, but for a player of his caliber, such incidents are stepping stones rather than setbacks. As India gears up for the Asia Cup, all eyes will be on Gill to prove once again why he is seen as the future of Indian cricket.