World Cup 2023: Abhishek Nayar has seen both Shubman Gill and Rinku Singh from close quarters as the assistant coach at the Kolkata Knight Riders, and the former Mumbai stalwart has little doubt that the duo will be at the forefront of the team’s journey through the transition.
Gill has already given a glimpse of his immense potential at the international level, while Rinku will get his turn during India’s tour to Ireland for three T20Is later this month.
“I have absolutely no doubt about their tremendous potential. With the amount of competition in cricket these days, it is not easy to get opportunities and they need to maximise the chances that come their way. Yes, it’s all about that mental push,” Nayar told PTI here on Saturday.
Gill has not fired in the desired manner during the on-going series against West Indies, often getting dismissed by the spinners.
In fact, Gill got out to spinners four times in six innings during this series.
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So, is there a worrying pattern getting developed, considering the ICC World Cup 2023 will be played on Indian pitches that are conducive to spin bowling? “I am not worried about Shubman as he has got a strong base and culture. It’s tough for a young cricketer to play so much cricket and be that consistent. You need to cut him some slack and say that he’s going to fail.” “He’s playing in the West Indies, not the easiest of conditions for batting…low scoring games. This experience is going to make him better. I think he’s going to have a terrific World Cup,” said Nayar.
Nayar said the selectors should give Rinku a long rope keeping in mind his prowess to take bowlers apart while coming in at No 6.
“There’s a possibility that he may take a little more time (to adapt to international cricket), you know, because of his upbringing. But he is a terrific player. Anyone who averages 60 in First-Class cricket, 50 in List A and 30 in T20 is a terrific player,” he said.
The former Mumbai all-rounder said talents such as Rinku come very rarely in Indian cricket.
At number six, right now in Indian cricket, there are very few players, especially left-handers, who can do what he’s doing. He does it consistently.
“So, I would love to have a long rope for him and, hopefully, the selectors will keep faith in him. Rinku is also someone who will add so much value to the team with his overall attitude,” said Nayar.
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