Shubman Gill had to retire hurt while batting in the India-New Zealand semi-final on Wednesday due to the after-effects of dengue. This kept Shubman Gill from playing in the initial matches of the World Cup.
During the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, Shubman Gill grimaced in pain. This happened when he was playing against New Zealand. Subsequently, this was due to cramps.
Even though cramps can happen when it’s humid, for him, they usually come on slowly, not suddenly. But because he lost some muscle mass, his energy reserve has decreased a bit, Gill mentioned.
Moreover, Gill expressed, “He could have gotten a hundred if he didn’t get cramps.” He scored an unbeaten 80 in 66 deliveries. But we achieved the target they (the Indian cricket team) set, whether he got a hundred or not. They planned to reach a certain run count by 25th or 30th over, and we aimed for around 400 runs. So, it didn’t matter if I reached a century or not.
Following their key role in Team India’s 70-run win over New Zealand, young opener Shubman Gill revealed the inspiring quality in Virat Kohli.
Cricketers Experiencing Cramps
During the ICC World Cup 2023, several cricket players experienced cramps on the field. Subsequently, in the 23rd over, India’s Shubman Gill left due to cramps. However, he returned to bat in the last over and field during New Zealand’s innings.
In the ICC World Cup 2023, even Virat Kohli encountered challenges. He reached his 50th century, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record, yet faced difficulties in the final 149 minutes of his batting. Additionally, Daryl Mitchell from New Zealand faced challenges. He experienced cramps in his innings, reaching a point where he couldn’t stand, let alone swing a bat.
On the November 7 match, Australia’s Glenn Maxwell endured severe cramps, collapsing to the ground in agony.
In the match against The Netherlands at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Shreyas Iyer faced cramps. Subsequently, he informed the press that he had taken medication to alleviate the cramps.
Regarding Shubman Gill, the cricketer explained that his cramps resulted from his previous dengue infection. “It was quite humid, and just the after-effects of dengue,” he stated.
Expert and Doctor-Recommended Tips to Prevent Cramps
Although it’s not entirely possible to prevent cramps, experts suggest essential measures. Athletes should drink plenty of liquids and stretch correctly to avoid these painful spasms. If an athlete experiences cramps during a game, they should consider gentle massaging and hydrating their bodies.
Additionally, doctors recommend orally taking magnesium or calcium supplements.
Dengue’s Impact Causes Shubman Gill to Cramp at Wankhede
Although Gill had a successful year in ODI cricket, a bout of dengue affected his health and performance in the early stages of the World Cup.
Consequently, when Gill had to leave the field in the 23rd over of India’s innings, he was batting at 79. After that, he returned to bat in the final over and fielded during New Zealand’s innings after the fourth wicket. As a result, he has declared himself ready to participate in the November 19 World Cup final in Ahmedabad.
During the post-game press conference, Gill mentioned he got cramps, and then pulled his hamstring, attributing it to dengue and humidity.
After missing the first two league games, Gill came back to play in all eight matches for India. Gill mentioned that dengue made him lose some muscle mass, even though he believes it hasn’t affected his games significantly.
“He didn’t change his batting, but he lost muscle mass, and the energy he had before dengue decreased”.
In India’s impressive total of 397 for 4, both Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer scored centuries. Gill, despite being disappointed about missing a century due to cramps, expressed satisfaction with his role in the semi-final victory.
Comeback of Shubman Gill in India vs New Zealand World Cup 2023 Semifinal
After a brief injury absence, Shubman Gill made a comeback. He returned in the final over of the Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinal against New Zealand. On a hot day at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, opener Gill had to retire hurt, causing a setback to the team. In excellent form, Gill scored 79 off 65 deliveries by the 23rd over when cramps began. Despite experiencing discomfort, Gill stayed on the field and wasn’t removed. Following treatment from the team physio, Gill opted for a short break but was eligible to return later.
Shubman Gill Finds Inspiration in Virat Kohli and learns from Rohit Sharma
Young opener Shubman Gill gains inspiration from Virat Kohli’s passion and intensity in cricket. Furthermore, he actively seeks to learn from Captain Rohit Sharma.
On Wednesday, Virat Kohli propelled India to the World Cup final in Mumbai. While watching from the dressing room after retiring hurt at 80 due to cramps, young Gill drew inspiration from Kohli’s consistent excellence. Following India’s 70-run victory over New Zealand.
Shubman Gill expressed admiration for Kohli’s ability to do something exceptional every time he steps onto the field.
The Punjab right-hander highlighted his learning experience while batting alongside Rohit. Rohit’s fearless approach at the crease consistently sets the tone for the team in World Cup games. Gill expressed admiration, stating, “Everything about him really impresses me. I stand as a learner in the Powerplay. He plays 10 overs, and I play 15-20 balls.” He further explained, “I rest, and Rohit comes and does his thing. He scores a four here, a six there, and I just watch.”
