JYNEWS, Shubman Gill ODI Dominance : The 2025 India vs England ODI series opener wasn’t just a game—it was a coronation. Shubman Gill, India’s 25-year-old batting prodigy, etched his name into cricket folklore by becoming the third-highest run-scorer in men’s ODI history after 48 matches, surpassing legends like Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. With 2,415 runs at a staggering average of 58.90, Gill is rewriting record books while spearheading India’s charge toward the Champions Trophy. But how does he stack up against the greats, and can he sustain this meteoric rise? Let’s dive into the numbers, the madness, and the masterclass.
Shubman Gill Milestone : Breaking Down the 2,415-Run Tsunami
In India’s four-wicket victory over England in Nagpur, Gill’s 87 off 96 balls wasn’t just match-winning—it was historic. Here’s how his first 48 ODIs compare to the pantheon of greats:
| Player | Runs After 48 ODIs | Average | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| AB de Villiers | 2,551 | 51.02 | 99.21 |
| Hashim Amla | 2,462 | 55.95 | 90.34 |
| Shubman Gill | 2,415 | 58.90 | 101.30 |
| Virat Kohli | 2,067 | 51.67 | 86.72 |
| Babar Azam | 2,236 | 56.05 | 88.90 |
Gill’s 2,415 runs include 6 centuries and 14 fifties, with a highest score of 208. He’s the only batter in this elite group to average over 55 and strike above 100.
The Nagpur Masterclass : How Gill Outshone England
Chasing 249, India’s top order wobbled early, losing Rohit Sharma (2) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (15). Gill, batting at No. 3, anchored the innings with a blend of elegance and aggression:
- Partnership with Shreyas Iyer: 94 runs off 64 balls.
- Stand with Axar Patel: 108 runs off 107 balls.
- Key Stats: 14 boundaries, 87% strike rate, 96 balls faced.
His knock propelled India to victory with 68 balls to spare, earning praise from legends like Sanjay Manjrekar, who tweeted: “Lambi race ka Ghoda—Shubman Gill is here to stay!”
Gill vs Greats: Why This Milestone Matters
Gill’s numbers aren’t just impressive—they’re revolutionary. Let’s dissect why his 48-match tally stands out:
1. Fastest to 2,000 ODI Runs
Gill shattered Babar Azam’s record, reaching 2,000 runs in 38 innings (vs. Babar’s 42). His 208 against New Zealand in 2023 remains the youngest double-century in ODI history.
2. Consistency on Steroids
- 2022: 638 runs @ 70.88 (1 century, 4 fifties).
- 2023: 1,504 runs @ 63.36 (5 centuries, 8 fifties).
- 2025: Started with 87 vs England, signaling a return to form after a brief slump.
3. Hybrid Batting Genius
Gill blends Kohli’s consistency with Rohit’s flair. His ability to switch gears—50 off 60 balls, then 37 off 36—makes him a nightmare for bowlers.
The Secret Sauce: What Makes Gill Unstoppable
- Technique: A still head, precise footwork, and a 360-degree shot range.
- Temperament: Thrives under pressure (e.g., 91 in the Gabba Test, 2021).
- Work Ethic: Trains with Rahul Dravid’s playbook—focus on “time spent at the crease, not milestones.”
The Road Ahead: Champions Trophy and Beyond
Gill’s form is critical for India’s 2025 Champions Trophy campaign. His stats at home are terrifying:
- Runs: 1,300+
- Average: 62.50
- Centuries: 4 (including a 208 vs NZ).
With Virat Kohli nearing retirement, Gill is poised to inherit the mantle of India’s batting kingpin.
Final Verdict: The Prince Who Became King
Shubman Gill’s 2,415 runs in 48 ODIs aren’t just numbers—they’re a prophecy. At 25, he’s already outpacing legends, blending grace with grit. As India gears up for the Champions Trophy, one thing’s clear: Gill isn’t just the future; he’s the now.
Q&A: Your Burning Questions Answered
Q: Can Gill surpass AB de Villiers’ 2,551 runs in his next ODI?
A: Unlikely—he needs 137 runs. But with his form, expect fireworks soon.
Q: How does Gill’s average compare to Kohli’s after 48 ODIs?
A: Kohli averaged 51.67; Gill’s 58.90 is 2nd only to Amla (55.95) in this group.
Q: Why was Gill moved to No. 3 in the England ODI?
A: To accommodate Jaiswal as opener. Gill’s adaptability shone through.
Q: What’s next for Gill?
A: The 2025 Champions Trophy. With 2,415 runs, he’s India’s X-factor.
Q: Can he break Sachin’s records?
A: Too early, but his trajectory mirrors Tendulkar’s early dominance.