Abhishek, who currently tops the ICC T20I batting rankings, has dismissed concerns over the duo’s recent struggles, asserting that both Suryakumar and Gill will play decisive roles for India during the upcoming ICC men’s T20 World Cup.
Gill has been sidelined since picking up a neck injury during the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens last month, while Pandya has been out of action following the left quadricep injury he sustained during the Asia Cup 2025.
With Team India clinching the ODI series at 2-1, the cricket crazy spectators here pin the hope of an exciting tie between the two teams and expect the Surya Kumar Yadav led home team getting the better of the proteas.
Rohit, who led the team to their title win in 2024, shared the gruelling task of winning an ICC event. “It’s a huge task to win an ICC trophy, I’ve seen that personally as well," he said.
Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson brushed aside the weight of back-to-back defeats to their arch-rivals, insisting that the only result that truly matters is the one that will unfold in Sunday’s final.
Indian team management has reportedly appealed against the verdict.
Having already secured their spot in the final with convincing wins against Pakistan and Bangladesh, India can afford to experiment, particularly in the middle order where Sanju Samson has struggled to find his role.
“I would like to say one thing on this question. I feel that you should stop asking this question on the rivalry,” he said at the post-match press conference.
Hardik Pandya’s fitness concerns seem to have forced decision-makers opt for another option
Reflecting on the time spent on the entire rehab process, Yadav said it helped him "grow as a person and athlete".
