Shubman Gill Aims for T20 Comeback Through IPL 2026 Performance

Shubman Gill, captain of Gujarat Titans, is determined to make a comeback to India's T20 squad through a strong performance in IPL 2026. After losing his place due to poor form, he aims to score heavily at the Narendra Modi Stadium, with former cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin backing his potential. Gill's impressive stats from IPL 2025 bolster his confidence, and he is eager to prove himself worthy of a T20 spot again. With the Titans looking to improve on last season's performance, Gill's success could be pivotal in their quest for the title.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 25, 2026, 20:32 IST

Shubman Gill's Path to T20 Redemption

Shubman Gill, the captain of Gujarat Titans, was recently appointed as the vice-captain of India's T20 squad. However, he lost his spot in the team due to a dip in form, while Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson capitalized on their chances. To reclaim his position in the T20 lineup, Gill is counting on a stellar performance in IPL 2026. Given his impressive track record with the Gujarat Titans, he is optimistic about amassing significant runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin highlighted Gill's prowess, referring to him as a 'don' in Ahmedabad, noting how challenging it is to dismiss him on home ground.

“To get him out in Ahmedabad has become quite a task; he has established himself as a formidable player there. I believe Shubman has no reason to be concerned, and if I were in his shoes, I would focus on scoring runs again. The best way to stay relevant is by accumulating runs. He will be the standout batter for GT,” Ashwin remarked during his segment on Ash ki Baat.

Ashwin anticipates that Gill will approach his batting similarly to last season in the IPL, advising him to prioritize scoring runs over chasing high strike rates. Last season, Gill was the fourth-highest run-scorer in IPL 2025, amassing 650 runs with an average of 50 and a strike rate of 155.88 across 15 matches.

“I have complete faith that Shubman will continue his batting style from last year. If he focuses too much on strike rates without scoring runs, GT will face challenges. I hope he avoids that path. He can score runs effectively without fixating on a high strike rate,” Ashwin added.

Having witnessed India clinch the T20 World Cup in 2026, Gill understands that he deserves a place in that squad. He is set to enter the IPL 2026 season eager to make a statement. Ashwin believes that if Gill remains focused on scoring runs, he stands a good chance of winning the Orange Cap, which would significantly enhance his prospects of rejoining the T20 setup. “With Gill, (Sai) Sudharsan, and (Jos) Buttler in the top three, Gill will approach the season with great hunger. We can expect another season where he competes for the Orange Cap. It’s possible he could win it, as he is determined to return to the T20I team,” Ashwin expressed.

Last season, the Gujarat Titans secured third place in the points table, winning nine out of their 14 matches. Under Gill's leadership, the Titans aim to improve their performance this season by finishing in the top two and advancing to the Qualifiers, thereby enhancing their chances of clinching the title for the second time.