In a recent interview, South African cricket legend Hashim Amla has tipped India’s Shubman Gill to be the ‘next big thing’ in international cricket, alongside Rishabh Pant and South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton.
Gill’s exceptional form has earned him the top spot in the one-day format rankings. His recent performances in the ICC Champions Trophy, including a century against Bangladesh and a solid 46 against Pakistan, have solidified his standing.
“For India, you have got Shubman Gill; Rishabh Pant has been around for a while. For South Africa, we have Ryan Rickelton who has done really well of late,” Amla, who is currently playing for South Africa Masters in the International Masters League, shared with PTI Videos. He added, “Every country has about 2-3 cricketers who are going to come through, and I think that’s pretty normal. Every five years, some youngster pokes their head through international cricket and possibly becomes the next big thing.”
Amla emphasized the significant role Gill has played in India’s success in the ODI format. Alongside Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, Gill forms a formidable trio at the top of the order. “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 the top of the order,” Amla commented. “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.”
When discussing the favorites to win the ongoing ICC tournament, Amla expressed confidence in both India and South Africa. “India has a very good chance, they have had a fantastic team over the last 15-odd years,” he said. “South Africa also has a great chance. They have fantastic batting and bowling, and their whole unit looks very well balanced. They have an excellent chance to make it to the top four and hopefully win it.”
India has already secured a spot in the semi-finals, having won their two games. South Africa tops Group B with three points, and another win will ensure their place in the elimination stages of the tournament.
