India vs Pakistan: Ahead of epic clash, Shubman Gill seen in full-blown practice

The lead-up to the epic India vs Pakistan clash on October 14 at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi stadium has thrown up an interesting conundrum for the home team in the form of Shubman Gill. The elegant opening batter has been away from the action thus far in the World Cup after he was diagnosed with dengue fever only days prior to the beginning of the tournament, and his fans are now keenly looking forward to his return. 

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At the latest press interaction, Indian captain Rohit Sharma revealed that Gill, at this point, is "99% available", which has now raised the hopes of cricket buffs out there. To make things better, the 24-year-old was spotted in a nearly hour-long batting session at the venue.

According to reports, Shubman Gill offered an affirmative to team India batting coach Vikram Rathore after being inquired about how he felt post the batting session. Another report on social media claimed that both Gill and Rohit Sharma were seen at practice and in great spirits, meaning that there's a great chance of the original opening batting pair walking onto the ground tomorrow. Gill, of course, has been replaced by Ishan Kishan who is yet to shine bright in the tournament.

Shubman Gill's return to the team would certainly lend a psychological advantage to the Indians who will certainly feel the pressure of facing arch-rivals Pakistan at India's biggest cricket venue. The contest is the marquee event of World Cup 2023 by a long stretch and considering what's at stake, team India is sure to want its best arsenal in place. 

In the recent past, Pakistan's talisman bowler Shaheen Afridi has gotten the better of India's opening unit and much of the focus of the World Cup game would be cast on his initial spell. At the recently held Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill did put on a good show against Pakistan's skilled pace attack with a 50 each.

Both teams, though, are entering the clash on the back of on-the-trot victories with India, expectedly, feeling a slightly more accomplished unit after its two wins. That said, the pressure of the moment will certainly occupy the air for the hosts who will not take Babar Azam's tenacious side lightly. 

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India vs Pakistan begins at 2 pm on October 14, 2023. The match can be streamed on Disney plus Hotstar and can also be viewed on Star Sports