Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lifted the lid on a revealing exchange between Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma during India’s dramatic Super Over victory against South Africa, showcasing the ruthless mindset of the new generation of Indian cricketers. Speaking on Star Sports after the match, Pathan narrated how Gill informed Sharma that 15 runs had already been scored in the second Super Over, to which Sharma replied, “Yes, but I want more.”
The moment, now viral across cricketing circles, encapsulates the hunger and killer instinct that defines India’s rising stars. Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 18 runs off just 5 balls in the second Super Over, was instrumental in sealing India’s win after both teams were tied twice—first in regulation play and then in the first Super Over.
“This is what separates good players from great ones,” Pathan said. “Abhishek wasn’t satisfied with 15. He wanted to push the envelope. That’s the mindset you need to win big tournaments.”
India vs South Africa – Super Over Breakdown
| Phase | Key Events | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation Match | Scores tied at 187 each | Match moved to Super Over |
| First Super Over | Both teams scored 12 runs | Match moved to second Super Over |
| Second Super Over | India scored 18 (Abhishek Sharma 18 off 5) | South Africa managed only 10 |
| Match Result | India won by 8 runs in second Super Over | Series levelled 2-2 |
Abhishek Sharma’s explosive hitting included two sixes and a boundary, with his final shot sailing over long-on to bring the crowd to its feet. Gill, who had partnered him in the Super Over, played a supporting role but was visibly impressed by Sharma’s intent.
Pathan’s anecdote has sparked admiration across the cricketing world, with fans and pundits praising the duo’s chemistry and mental toughness. “This is the kind of conversation that happens in elite teams. It’s not just about scoring—it’s about dominating,” said commentator Harsha Bhogle.
Abhishek Sharma – Series Performance Snapshot
| Match | Runs Scored | Balls Faced | Strike Rate | Match Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st T20 vs SA | 62 | 38 | 163.15 | Set up win |
| 2nd T20 vs SA | 45 | 27 | 166.66 | Anchored chase |
| 3rd T20 vs SA | 93 | 52 | 178.84 | Player of the Match |
| 4th T20 vs SA | 18 (SO) | 5 | 360.00 | Super Over hero |
Shubman Gill, who has been mentoring younger players like Sharma, said after the match, “Abhishek is fearless. He backs himself and that’s what you want in pressure moments. I just told him we had 15, and he said, ‘Let’s go for more.’ That’s the kind of attitude that wins matches.”
The exchange has also drawn comparisons to legendary partnerships in Indian cricket, with fans likening Gill and Sharma’s camaraderie to that of Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni in their prime.
Social media erupted with praise, with hashtags like #AbhishekSharma, #GillSharmaDuo, and #KillerInstinct trending across platforms. Fans shared clips of the Super Over, interviews, and memes celebrating the duo’s mindset.
Public Sentiment – Social Media Reaction to Gill-Sharma Exchange
| Platform | Engagement Level | Sentiment (%) | Top Hashtags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | 2.7M mentions | 84% inspired | #AbhishekSharma #GillSharmaDuo |
| 2.3M interactions | 80% celebratory | #KillerInstinct #IndiaWins | |
| 2.1M views | 88% emotional | #SharmaStorm #SuperOverThriller | |
| YouTube | 1.9M views | 82% analytical | #MatchHighlights #MindsetMatters |
India’s head coach Rahul Dravid praised the duo’s maturity and tactical awareness. “These are the kind of players who think beyond the scoreboard. They understand momentum, pressure, and execution. That’s what makes them special.”
The match has also reignited discussions around India’s T20 World Cup squad, with selectors reportedly considering Sharma, Gill, and Rinku Singh as core members of the batting unit. Sharma’s ability to perform under pressure has made him a strong contender for the finisher’s role.
India’s Emerging T20 Stars – Selection Watchlist
| Player Name | Role | Recent Form Summary | World Cup Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abhishek Sharma | Top-order Batter | 218 runs, SR 162 | High |
| Shubman Gill | Opener | 3 fifties in last 6 matches | Confirmed |
| Rinku Singh | Finisher | 3 match-winning cameos | Moderate |
| Tilak Varma | Middle-order Batter | 2 fifties in last 5 matches | Moderate |
As India prepares for the final T20 against South Africa, the Gill-Sharma duo has become the talk of the town—not just for their runs, but for their mindset. Pathan’s revelation has offered fans a glimpse into the mental fabric of India’s new cricketing generation: aggressive, fearless, and hungry for more.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available match reports, player statements, and verified sports coverage. It does not constitute betting advice or official team commentary. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.
