New Delhi: Indian Captain Shabman Gul After being named the winner of the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (Men) for 2025, delivered a powerful message, highlighting the weight of expectation that comes with representing one of the world’s top sides.Go beyond limits with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!After receiving the honor in the ceremony, he expressed his views. BCCIK Naman Awards, Gill highlighted the collective effort behind India’s rise as a dominant force, stressing that their reputation as the favorite was hard-earned.“It’s everyone’s efforts — whether it’s Gutibhai, the batting coach, the bowling coach, the fielding coach; they all work tirelessly to make this group what it is today. That’s why we’re recognized as one of the most fearless teams in the world, and we’re seen as favourites, wherever we go.” Gill said that this tag is not easy.
The 26-year-old also highlighted the importance of joining an elite list of past winners, describing the recognition as deeply special.“Obviously, it feels pretty amazing to be recognized among cricketers, legends and idols who have won this award before me. Whenever you take the field to represent your country, it’s really a great honor…and to do well in the game and be recognized by the BCCI is a huge honour.”Credit goes to Shubman Gul Gambhir and the support staff.Gill credited the head coach. Gautam Gambhir and the wider support staff, including the Center of Excellence, to shape the team’s fearless approach.Reflecting on the past year, Gayle pointed to India’s resilience during the England series, calling it an “amazing journey”. “Going into the England series and coming back to draw the series from where we were after the first Test … it’s been a really good year,” he said, referring to strong outings in the West Indies and the Asia Cup.Looking ahead, Gayle acknowledged the importance of the upcoming Test calendar, with crucial series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Australia set to determine India’s World Test Championship hopes.“We have some really important Test series coming up. Hopefully we can win most of our matches and qualify for the finals,” he said.Despite the accolades, Gill played down any talk of legacy, focusing on the team’s identity. “We want to be seen as a team that doesn’t give up easily. We want to instill that kind of character,” he noted.
