'I couldn’t convert them into a hundred' - Shubman Gill angry with himself for throwing away starts

India’s rising sensation Shubman Gill has been batting really well in the ongoing ODI series against West Indies and has got two good starts. The right-hander has been happy to play his shots in the powerplay and has been quite aggressive in his mode of approach. The 22-year-old was recalled into the ODI set-up for the series after more than a year, and he has responded in the best way possible so far.

Gill played a tremendous 64-run knock in the first ODI to lay the impetus for a big score to be posted by the Indian side but was unfortunately dismissed through a run out. He got to 43 in the second ODI in no time, and he looked impressive in both innings, although he hasn’t gone to the three-figure mark yet. No wonder he was disappointed with not converting the good starts.

It was important for me to pay that trust back: Shubman Gill

Gill mentioned that he was frustrated with himself after not getting to a hundred despite the good start and noted that the two innings have increased his confidence considerably. He hoped for a big score in the final ODI and felt proud to represent the country in international cricket. He was delighted for repaying the faith insisted on him and reckoned that opening with an experienced batter like Shikhar Dhawan has provided him with a lot to learn.

“After getting those starts, unfortunately, I couldn’t convert them into a hundred, and I am angry with myself for that,” said Gill while addressing the media.

“They were a huge confidence booster. West Indies are a good team, and we posted two good totals, one while batting first and the other while chasing. Hopefully, I will go big in the third match. The kind of starts I have been getting, I will aim to convert those into big innings,” the youngster said further.

“(Asking to open) gave me a lot of confidence. To be given to play a game for India, especially at the international level, feels good. It was important for me to pay that trust back, and I was happy to contribute to the team’s cause. Opening the batting alongside Shikhar has been great. He has so much experience, has played all over the world, and I get to learn a lot,” he added.