Gill’s rapid rise impresses Robin

FORMER UAE COACH SEES INDIA AS STRONG FAVOURITES TO WIN ASIA CUP AGAIN

- BY A.K.S. SATISH

India will enter next month’s Asia Cup as firm contenders, says former all-rounder Robin Singh, pointing to the team’s enviable depth and the rise of vice-captain Shubman Gill, now widely seen as the ‘Prince of Indian cricket’.

Singh, who has tracked India’s progress closely, believes Gill’s calmness and maturity have stood out in the past year. “He’s done exceptionally well, especially in England. His skills and technique have improved, and he looks more assured as a performer,” Singh observed. For him, Gill’s elevation is symbolic of a wider trend — India’s bench strength is so vast that even major tournaments spark debates over omissions.

“Today most of the top players can adapt across formats. The IPL has given them all T20 exposure, so it’s always difficult to leave anyone out,” Singh said, noting that the internal competition itself is a driver of India’s success.

India head into the Asia Cup as defending champions after lifting the previous edition in a 50-over format. Yet Singh feels rankings and recent results matter more than past labels. “They are right up there with the best. Their away Test success in England showed how strong this core group is,” he said.