Shubman Gill calls Dhoni's celebration as best Champions Trophy moment
What's the story
Indian cricket's poster boy Shubman Gill revealed his favorite memory from the 2013 Champions Trophy in a video released by ICC. He remembers MS Dhoni's jubilant celebration after India defeated England in the final. The win was India's last in the Champions Trophy, a nail-biting five-run win in Birmingham. Here's what the youngster had to say about his favorite moment from the victorious tournament.
Celebration details
Gill's recollection of Dhoni's celebration
Gill recalled the last moments of the match when a normally composed Dhoni jumped in the air. This was after the last ball. He also fondly recalled how everyone was dancing in their white blazers. Recalling the moment, he stated while speaking to ICC, "The batsman misses, and then the commentators say, 'The batsman misses, Dhoni misses, but it doesn't matter,' and then everybody is jumping and dancing in the white coat when they were getting that trophy."
Tournament ambitions
Gill's aspirations for upcoming Champions Trophy
As he gears up for the next ICC Champions Trophy in February, Gill reiterated his strong desire to play in the tournament. He said that he has always dreamed of playing in it since childhood, stating "I'm definitely very hungry, and it is something that you always dream of as a kid, and I've played one ICC tournament and came very close to winning a senior men's trophy."
Tournament intensity
Gill's views on the intensity of the tournament
Gill also acknowledged the intense competition that awaits in the eight-team tournament. He said there's no room for losses. He called the contest exciting and grueling, with no margin for error, and stated "There is no space for defeat only. I think the top teams are playing, and it's very exciting and very grueling." As India look to reclaim the Champions Trophy after a 12-year gap, Gill will play a key role in their campaign.
Stats
A look at Gill's ODI numbers ahead of the tournament
In 47 ODIs the batter has amassed 2,328 runs at an average of 58.20. According to ESPNcricinfo, he also boasts a strike rate of 101.74. Additionally, he has smashed six tons and 13 fifties, with his highest score being 208 (vs New Zealand) in 2023. Notably, his best year in ODIs came in 2023, when he hammered five tons and nine fifties while racking up 1,584 runs at an average of 63.36.