'Shubman Gill could turn into catch-22 situation for India': Irfan Pathan issues 'big worry' for T20 World Cup

Shubman Gill and Irfan Pathan (AFP/PTI Photo)

Shubman Gill is going through a lean patch as far his T20I form is concerned. And things couldn't have got any worse for the vice-captain, who was packed for a golden duck in the second T20I of the five-match series against South Africa in Mullanpur.

Gill made a return to the T20I setup after being out for over a year prior to Asia Cup 2025. He replaced wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for the opening slot. However, the stylish batter has only been able to muster 263 runs at an average of 23.90 in 14 games since returning to the format, with the highest score of 47.

Gill's poor form comes as a major concern in the run-up to the T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to take place in February and March next year. "Shubman Gill's T20I form is a big worry ahead of the T20 World Cup. Hopefully he finds his touch soon, otherwise it could turn into a real catch-22 situation for Team India," wrote former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan on X.

Shubman Gill’s T20i form is a big worry ahead of the T20 World Cup. Hopefully he finds his touch soon, otherwise it could turn into a real catch-22 situation for Team India.

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) December 11, 2025

Notably, before competing in the T20 World Cup, India still have eight matches left to play, which includes the remaining three in the current series against South Africa. This means that prior to the major tournament, the team has very limited time to test its players and various combinations. If Gill doesn't return to form, the idea of replacing Samson with him could come back to haunt India.

The team management had a great deal of faith in Gill's ability as a T20 opener, despite the fact that Samson and his Punjab teammate Abhishek Sharma were doing well at the top of the order. Following his displacement, Samson has had difficulty finding a spot in the playing XI.