Growing up, I didn’t idolize many cricketers, except for MS Dhoni. His calm leadership and unique style drew my admiration. But after Dhoni, the only player who truly inspired me was Shubman Gill. I first noticed him during the 2018 U-19 World Cup, where his century against Pakistan left a deep impression. Scoring 418 runs with an average of 104.5, Gill was named Player of the Tournament. Since then, I’ve closely followed his journey. His age and background resonated with me, making me feel as if I was cheering on someone from my own world.
The Pressure of Cricket Fame in India
Cricket in India is more than a sport; it’s a celebration. But this intense passion sometimes goes too far, as fans hold cricketers to unrealistic standards. I remember when Dhoni was at his peak; fans would often cross boundaries, treating him and his family rudely. Today, with the rise of social media, trolling has intensified. Faceless accounts criticize players, disregarding the mental toll it can take. A study by the International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology in 2020 shows that online abuse increases athletes’ anxiety, impacting their mental health.
Gill’s Growth and the “Prince of Cricket” Title
Shubman Gill has earned his title as the “Prince of Cricket.” His technique, consistency, and focus on the field have made him a standout. In the 2023 IPL season, Gill scored 890 runs for Gujarat Titans, averaging 59.33 with a strike rate of 157.8. He topped the leaderboard with three centuries, demonstrating his remarkable talent. But fame brings pressure, and Gill faces constant comparisons with legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Such scrutiny can be exhausting, yet he continues to prove himself.
Milestones and Achievements
Gill’s achievements are proof of his dedication. His centuries in all formats, a double century, and his 91-run performance at Gabba in 2022 highlight his skills. This innings contributed to India’s historic win in Australia. In 2023, Gill received the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award as Cricketer of the Year. Achievements like these are rare, marking him as one of India’s future cricketing greats.
The Journey of a Non-Cricketing Family
Unlike many players, Gill didn’t come from a cricketing family. His father, his first coach, believed in his talent and guided him. Gill’s hard work and discipline paved his path to success. In an interview, he shared stories of his sacrifices and relentless dedication. With thousands of players competing at local and state levels, only a few reach India’s national team. Gill’s journey showcases the rare combination of passion and resilience required to succeed in cricket.
Respecting the Players as Humans
Cricket is a team sport filled with challenges and pressures. Scrutinizing a player over minor setbacks is unfair. Each game involves factors fans often overlook. Gill’s innings at Gabba was pivotal for India’s victory, highlighting his strategic mindset. While some fans focus on individual scores, it’s the team’s success that ultimately matters.
The Responsibility of Fans
As a fan, I feel proud of Shubman Gill. Watching him grow over the years has given me a deeper understanding of his journey. When people criticize him harshly, it bothers me. His success is a result of hard work and commitment. Like all players, Gill knows his strengths and areas for improvement.
Cricketers are human, entitled to imperfections. While they represent the country, they deserve respect and understanding. The least we, as fans, can do is appreciate their efforts and show kindness.
Follow Day News on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates