• Shubman Gill, India's newly appointed Test captain, found himself at the centre of attention, but for all the wrong reasons.

  • Gill departed for just 13 runs in a high-octane IPL 2025 clash between GT and CSK.

IPL 2025: ‘Showing glimpses of England’ – Fans mercilessly troll Shubman Gill after slip dismissal in GT vs CSK clash
Shubman Gill (Image Source: X)

Table of Contents

In a high-octane clash at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Shubman Gill, India‘s newly appointed Test captain, found himself at the centre of attention, but for all the wrong reasons. As the Gujarat Titans locked horns with five-time champions Chennai Super Kings in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match, expectations from Gill were enormous. Leading Gujarat in what was billed as a marquee encounter, fans anticipated a commanding innings from the elegant right-hander, particularly given his dual role as captain of both franchise and national red-ball cricket. But instead of delivering a statement performance, Gill faltered early, departing for just 13 runs.

Shubman Gill’s early dismissal against CSK in the IPL 2025

With Gill known for his proactive batting in the powerplay, Dhoni set a rare but calculated field, a slip fielder in place during the third over of a T20 game. It was a field placement that screamed Test match cricket, and it caught many by surprise. Right-arm pacer Anshul Kamboj, executing Dhoni’s plan to perfection, bowled one that landed on a good length and held its line. Gill, who had just dispatched the previous delivery for a boundary, advanced down the pitch to continue the aggression. However, he misread the subtle seam movement. The result: a thick outside edge that flew straight to Urvil Patel at slip, who made no mistake. The execution was flawless, and the moment was vintage Dhoni, reading the batter, anticipating his move, setting the perfect trap, and watching it unfold with clinical satisfaction. It wasn’t just a wicket; it was a psychological blow to Gujarat, removing their captain and anchor at a critical juncture.

Also READ: Top 5 fastest fifties for CSK in IPL history ft. Dewald Brevis

Online backlash tied to Gill’s overseas struggles

As the cameras cut to Gill walking back with visible frustration, the digital world erupted in a frenzy. Social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), were flooded with posts mocking the nature of his dismissal. Many users drew parallels between this slip catch and the dismissals he has suffered in England, where he has repeatedly been undone by seam and swing. For Indian cricket observers, this was more than just an IPL moment  it was an eerie reminder of what looms ahead in the English summer. Gill’s technical weaknesses outside the off-stump, especially when the ball moves away from him early in the innings, have become a well-documented concern. Trolls pointed out that the edge to slip was a ‘classic English dismissal,’ sarcastically calling it a ‘warm-up’ for the upcoming Test tour. The trolling may have been lighthearted, but it stemmed from a place of genuine apprehension about India’s captain faltering at the highest level in challenging conditions.

Here’s how fans reacted:

India’s new Test captain Gill’s overseas record raises red flags

For all of Gill’s grace and promise with the bat, his numbers in overseas Test matches tell a rather sobering story. Across 15 Tests played outside India, Gill has accumulated just 716 runs at an average of 27.54, a figure that significantly pales in comparison to his home average. While he has managed a solitary century and two half-centuries abroad, the larger sample size reveals a persistent struggle. In England specifically, the venue of India’s next major Test assignment, his stats are even more concerning. In 3 matches and 6 innings, Gill has amassed only 88 runs at a dismal average of 14.66, with a highest score of just 28. It’s not just the lack of big scores, but the manner of his dismissals that alarms critics: early edges, tentative footwork, and an inability to adjust to late swing. These are not just technical issues but also mental challenges, particularly for someone now tasked with leading India in a pivotal overseas series. While one cannot write off a young player for a few poor innings, the lack of visible correction over successive tours raises legitimate doubts.

Also READ: Faf du Plessis responds humorously to romantic film suggestion with Preity Zinta

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: England Featured Shubman Gill Twitter Reactions

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
AMAR PAL SINGH BHALLA
Amar is a sports enthusiast and a talented writer who has found the perfect career that combines his two passions. As a valuable member of Cricket Times, Amar brings his passion for cricket and his talent for writing to the fore, providing readers with insightful and engaging content. Cricket lives rent-free in his mind. A person who views cricket as a metaphor for life. You can connect with Amar at amar.bhalla@crickettimes.com and also follow him on LinkedIn.