ZIM v IND 2022: Definitely special, want to dedicate to my father - Shubman Gill on his first international ton

Gill slammed 130 in the third ODI against Zimbabwe and also won Player of the Series award.

By Ankitjit Singh - 23 Aug, 2022

India batter Shubman Gill on Monday (22nd August) talked about his match-winning performance in the third ODI against Zimbabwe. He dedicated his ton to his father and said that it was a special feeling for him. 

Shubman was yet again a star for India as he set the stage on fire and after a long wait, he finally notched up his maiden international ton and helped his side win the match. 

After registering scores of 82* and 33 in the first two ODIs against Zimbabwe, Gill yet again showcased his class and played a brilliant knock to take his side out of trouble after they found themselves tumbling at 84/2. 

Read Also: Team India sweep ODI series despite Sikandar Raza’s valiant ton in third ODI

Batting at No.3, Gill first added 140 runs with Ishan Kishan, who scored 50 in 61 balls and then paved his way through his maiden century in ODIs. He ended with a score of 130 runs in 97 balls, including 15 fours and 1 six. 

Gill not only won Player of the Match in the third ODI but he was also awarded Player of the Series for his staggering performance in the series. He was the leading run-scorer in the series with 245 runs in three matches to his name. 

Speaking during the post-match presentation, Shubman Gill said that he tried to minimise his dot ball percentage and was looking for gaps. He added that it was important for him to get his team through the difficult phase. 

“I was just trying to minimise my dot ball percentage. I tried to hit the gaps as much as possible. When I went in, there were a couple of bowlers bowling good. It was crucial to get through that. Once we were settled, we knew we could attack,” Shubman Gill said. 

Read Also: WATCH- Indian players dance on ‘Kaala Chashma’ as they celebrate ODI series over Zimbabwe

Gill also revealed why he changed his bat in mid-innings and also talked about his first ton. He also added that his father, who is his primary coach, gave him good schooling after he got out in the second ODI. 

“The bat was pretty good. That's why I changed it after my 50, I wanted to save it. Definitely special (on hitting his maiden international ton). (Playing in this team) It feels great, great bunch of players. 

"Feels good when you are with the same bunch. My father has been my primary coach. I got a schooling after I got out in the second ODI, so I dedicate this to him,” he said. 

Gill has made himself a strong case in the Indian ODI side with his performance in the last two series. If the right-hander continues to perform like this, he could well be in contention for the spot in the Cricket World Cup 2023. 

By Ankitjit Singh - 23 Aug, 2022

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