‘Next Big Thing’: Hashim Amla Tips Shubman Gill To Be India’s Next Superstar In ODI Cricket
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Hashim Amla praised Shubman Gill as the ‘next big thing’ in cricket alongside Rishabh Pant and Ryan Rickelton. Gill’s recent form has been exceptional, making him a key player for India.
Shubman Gill has been outstanding in ODI cricket. (Image: AP)
South African batting great, Hashim Amla has called India’s Shubman Gill as the ‘next big thing’ in international cricket alongside Rishabh Pant and South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton.
Gill has been in sublime form lately and is currently the top-ranked batter in the one-day format. He brought it forward into the ICC Champions Trophy where he struck a century against Bangladesh followed by a 46 against Pakistan in Dubai.
“For India, you have got Shubham Gill; Rishabh Pant has been around for a while. For South Africa, we have Ryan Rickelton who has done really well off late,” Amla, who is playing for South Africa Masters in the International Masters League, told PTI Videos.
“Every country has about 2-3 cricketers who are going to come through and I think that’s pretty normal, that you see that every five years some youngster poke in the head through international cricket, and possibly be the next best, big thing,” he added.
He reckons that the opening batter has played a big role in India’s success in the format and their top three batters which also includes Rohit Sharma followed by Virat Kohli, makes them a dangerous trio.
“He is a brilliant player, the way he started in one-day cricket, he has been exceptional. He has been a huge part of India’s success at top of the order.”
“To have him and Rohit (Sharma) at the top, it’s a very potent and dangerous opening partnership, and then they have got Virat (Kohli) at No 3.”
Speaking on the favourites to win the ongoing ICC tournament, Amla reckons that both India and South Africa stand a strong chance to go all the way.
“India have obviously a very good chance, they have a fantastic team over the (last) 15-odd years,” he said.
“South Africa have (a) great chance (too), they have fantastic batting and bowling and whole unit looks very well balanced, they have a excellent chance to make it to top four and then hopefully win it.”
India, having won their two games have qualified for the semi-final while South Africa top Group B with three points. Another win for the Proteas would ensure their spot in the elimination stages of the tournament.