Indian opener Shubman Gill was batting like a dream at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai against New Zealand in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 semifinal. But Gill's stay at the crease was cut-short in the 23rd over of India’s innings. Struggling with cramps, Gill was slowing down and was receiving treatment on the field from the physio. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was not convinced that Gill should continue to bat in this position and sent a message that he should get back to the dressing room to receive medical attention instead of limping while running between the wickets.
The first signs of Gill struggling was after the 20th over. Earlier during the drinks break, Gill had some issues as well. The physio helped with some stretching exercises for his left leg and back. Only three runs were scored in the 21st over. During the break between the overs, Rohit and Ravichandran Ashwin were spotted having an animated conversation. Moments later, Ashwin was on the ground with painkillers for Gill.
As Gill struggled to take a single in the 23rd over, he called for the physio again. Meanwhile, Rohit sent Prasidh Krishna to the ground and asked Gill to come back to the dressing room as he did not want the momentum to shift to New Zealand's side if Gill lost his wicket.
Gill retired hurt when he was batting on 79 off 65 balls featuring eight fours and three sixes. He shared a 71-run opening partnership with Rohit who contributed with a 29-ball 47. After Rohit's wicket, he accelerated and took on the spinners to get to his half-century from 41 balls. He continued to target the spinners until cramps got the better of him.
Rohit’s move to bring back Gill is justified as India got off to an electrifying start. Shreyas Iyer who recently played a quickfire knock against Sri Lanka was the perfect partner for Kohli who wants a quick runner between the wickets to build his innings.
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