Is Shubman Gill Trying to Channel His Inner Virat Kohli? Ex-Cricketer Raises Eyebrows

2025-07-22
Is Shubman Gill Trying to Channel His Inner Virat Kohli? Ex-Cricketer Raises Eyebrows
India Today

The cricketing world is buzzing with debate surrounding India's young batting sensation, Shubman Gill. While his talent is undeniable, former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has sparked a significant discussion, suggesting that Gill is attempting to emulate Virat Kohli's aggressive on-field persona. This observation has ignited a fiery debate amongst fans and pundits alike, questioning whether such imitation is beneficial for Gill's development and the team's dynamics.

Tiwary's comments stemmed from recent incidents where Gill displayed demonstrative reactions during matches. He believes that while aggression can be a valuable asset in cricket, it shouldn't be a forced imitation of another player's style. “I feel Shubman Gill is trying to copy Virat Kohli's aggression,” Tiwary stated in a recent interview. “He needs to understand that everyone has their own way of expressing themselves on the field. Trying to replicate someone else’s behaviour can sometimes be detrimental.”

The controversy surrounding Gill’s behaviour isn't new. He has been under scrutiny for his reactions to dismissals and perceived displays of frustration. While some view these as signs of a passionate player eager to succeed, others see them as potentially disruptive to the team’s composure. The comparison to Kohli is particularly interesting, given Kohli's reputation as one of the most fiercely competitive and outwardly expressive players in the game.

However, there's a nuanced perspective to consider. Kohli's aggression is deeply rooted in his personality and years of experience. It's an instinctive reaction honed over countless matches. For a young player like Gill, attempting to replicate this without a genuine understanding of its underlying principles could appear artificial and potentially backfire.

The key takeaway here isn't necessarily whether Gill should or shouldn't display aggression. Instead, it's about authenticity and self-awareness. Gill needs to find his own way to channel his emotions and express his competitive spirit, rather than simply mimicking someone else. This requires a deep understanding of his own game, his own temperament, and the expectations of the team.

Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the team management and senior players to guide Gill and help him develop his own unique style. Encouraging him to be himself, while fostering a culture of positive aggression, will be crucial for his long-term success and the overall strength of the Indian cricket team. The debate surrounding Gill's on-field behaviour is a valuable opportunity to discuss the importance of authenticity and individuality in the high-pressure world of professional cricket.

The coming matches will undoubtedly be closely watched, not just for Gill’s batting prowess, but also for how he handles the pressure and navigates the expectations surrounding him. Will he heed the advice of former cricketers like Manoj Tiwary and forge his own path, or will he continue to draw inspiration from Virat Kohli's aggressive approach? Only time will tell.

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