In a remarkable display of admiration, Shubman Gill, the talented batsman from the Gujarat Titans (GT), spared no praise for his cricket idol, Virat Kohli. Following his remarkable maiden century in the IPL against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Gill expressed his deep admiration, stating, “When I was 12-13, I followed Kohli the most, he has been my idol.” This heartfelt acknowledgment of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar’s influence was reciprocated by Kohli himself, applauding Gill for his outstanding knock.
Virat Kohli's Instagram story for Shubman Gill. pic.twitter.com/2HGr093NCx
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 16, 2023
As the opener for the Gujarat Titans, Gill made his mentor proud with a flawless innings, once again highlighting his versatility as an all-format player, much like Kohli. His sublime century not only propelled the GT into the playoffs but also dashed SRH’s hopes of advancing in the IPL 2023 race.
Shubman Gill said, "when I was 12-13, I followed Virat Kohli the most, he has been my idol. I learnt a lot from Virat bhai. His passion and commitment motivates me". pic.twitter.com/r4ygk9K5r3
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 15, 2023
Gill’s admiration for Kohli stems from the latter’s unmatched passion and unwavering commitment to the game of cricket. This quality has always stood out, and it continues to motivate the young opener. Like his idol, Gill first tasted success at the Under-19 level before making his mark in the Indian cricket team. The hunger to score runs across all formats has drawn inevitable comparisons between Gill and Kohli.
Special moment on a special night 💜⚡️ pic.twitter.com/vJeBEptH0A
— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) May 15, 2023
With GT securing a coveted spot among the top two in the playoffs, they currently lead the table with 18 points. Only the Mumbai Indians (MI) have a chance to equalize their position in the points table. GT’s last league match against RCB on May 21 will be a crucial showdown. Meanwhile, RCB, propelled by the dynamic leadership of Kohli, have kept their playoff dreams alive by defeating RR. With two matches remaining against SRH and GT, RCB must secure victories in both to maintain their playoff aspirations.
Shubman Gill said "Virat bhai has been my hero & idol, his passion, commitment, energy makes me motivate a lot". pic.twitter.com/iqWd85MTY1
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 15, 2023
In the past two matches against MI and RR, Kohli has been unable to make significant contributions with the bat. Consequently, the RCB superstar will be eager to make amends and shine in the upcoming matches against SRH and GT, lending his invaluable support to help RCB reach the playoffs.