WATCH: Crowd erupts in thunderous cheer as Rohit Sharma officially announces Shubman Gill’s inclusion in Playing XI against Pakistan in ODI World Cup 2023

The much-anticipated cricket clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is poised to captivate billions of viewers during the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023. The Indian team, having secured victories against Australia and Afghanistan, is entering the match with confidence, while the Pakistani side, triumphing over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, is geared up for the challenge.

Amidst the resounding chants of “India…India” reverberating through the stadium, a thunderous cheer erupted for the emerging Indian opener, Shubman Gill. Skipper Rohit Sharma, having won the toss and chosen to bowl first, delighted the crowd by confirming Shubman Gill’s inclusion in the Playing XI. The announcement by Rohit regarding Gill’s return was met with enthusiastic cheers, creating an electric atmosphere as he paused in the midst of the jubilant crowd.

Watch the video here:

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— rajendra tikyani (@Rspt1503) October 14, 2023

The inclusion of Shubman Gill strengthens the Indian batting

Overcoming health challenges, Shubman Gill has successfully returned to the Indian team lineup for the upcoming match. Gill’s participation in the World Cup 2023 game against Pakistan had been under speculation due to his battle with dengue, leading to his absence in matches against Australia and Afghanistan. A significant drop in platelet count required hospitalization in Chennai’s Kaveri hospital. Despite these obstacles, Gill exhibited a remarkable recovery and rejoined the team in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, October 11.

Earlier, Rohit Sharma in a pre-match press conference, virtually confirmed Gill’s presence in the lineup against Pakistan. Rohit also went on to express a 99 per cent certainty of his participation. This news was greeted with relief and excitement, given Gill’s stellar form as one of India’s standout ODI batters in 2023. His remarkable year is evident in the statistics and impact that he has made in the game. The star India batter has scored 1230 runs at an impressive average of 72.35. Meanwhile, he even scored five centuries and an equal number of fifties. After winning the toss, Rohit Sharma announced Gill’s return to the game. Gill replaced Ishan Kishan which sparked a loud cheer from the fans in Ahmedabad. The inclusion of  Gill will strengthen the Indian team’s batting lineup considering his batting love affair with the Ahmedabad ground.