Shubman wants to play under Virat, says father
CHANDIGARH: “Shubi kept his promise. Before leaving for New Zealand, he had promised to deliver the goods for India and get the World Cup home. His hard work of last two years has paid off,” said Lakhwinder Singh Gill, father of Indian U-19 star Shubman Gill.
Vice-captain Shubman made 31 in the final being being bowled by Chandigarh-born Aussie offspinner Param Uppal. Gill was adjudged Player-of-the-series.
Shubman, 18, who was bought by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for ~1.8 crore last month, emerged the highest run-getter with 372 runs (three half centuries and a century) in the event. He had scored a match-winning, unbeaten 102 in the semifinal against Pakistan.
“The final was a pressure game. The boys kept their cool and played well on a difficult pitch. I am elated that my son, who lives for the sport, was able to do well. All credit goes to coach Rahul
Dravid,” said Lakhwinder.
The Gill family shut itself off from the media and guests till the match was over.
Residents of their housing society put up a screen in the compound to watch the game together.
KOHLI FAN
“I hope and pray Shubman remains focused like this and after making his dream true, he works harder to make it to the India team. He wants to play under his idol Virat Kohli. After he returns, we’re going to celebrate for a brief period before he goes to Bangalore for Vijay Hazare Trophy,” Lakhwinder, 46.
“We were nervous unlike Shubi. He had a good night’s sleep on the eve of the final. The Almighty has answered our prayers. Our village is in the news now because of Shubi,” said his mother, Keerat Gill.