• Source:JND
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Shubman Gill has had a promising start to his Asia Cup 2025 campaign with India, as he came up with an impactful contribution of 20 runs unbeaten in 9 balls on the back of two fours and a six. India ended up defeating the UAE by 9 wickets in their first match on Wednesday.

Gill was made the vice-captain of the team in the T20I format and opened alongside Abhishek Sharma in the first match. Ahead of the much-awaited India vs Pakistan clash, Gill opened up on his cricketing journey and the inspirations behind his emergence as India's top cricketer.

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While recalling his early cricketing heroes, Gill went on to highlight how Kohli’s passion and hunger for the game left a lasting impression on him. "Talent and skill are one thing, but if you don’t have the drive and the passion, it doesn’t matter," he said.

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Kohli’s passion, aggression, and incredible hunger to perform were the roadmaps that showed him what it truly takes to succeed at the highest level. On the other hand, Gill always took an admiration for this, and it became a path for his own success as well.

Having just been appointed as India's new Test captain, Gill got to know much about managing pressure situations and overcoming expectations during the all-important England tour. “I want to do my part sincerely and honestly without seeking appreciation,” he said.

The right-handed batter led from the front in England with 754 runs on the back of four centuries as the five-match Test series ended in a 2-2 draw.

While Gill is the frontrunner to become India's next all-format captain, he will be looking to make it count in every opportunity he gets, including in the match against arch-rivals Pakistan, which is scheduled to be played on September 14 in Dubai.