World number one T20I batsman Abhishek Sharma spoke about his opening partnership with Shubman Gill and said that it is no longer a combination of contrasting styles and both want to hit the gas pedal right from the start. When asked if their partnership could still be described as a mixture of “ice and fire”, Abhishek was quick to insist that it had now become “fire and fire”.
Referring to their strong position in the fifth and final T20I series in Australia on Saturday, November 8, Abhishek expressed pride in his camaraderie with Gill, his teammate since their 12 days.
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The Punjab batsmen attacked the Australian attack in Brisbane and had earlier scored 52 for 0 in just 4.5 overs. the rain spoiled and forced ablution. Usually known for his calm and composed starts, Gill was the aggressor at the Gabba as he hit 29 off just 16 balls while Abhishek hit 23 off 13.
Abhishek was not at his best, enjoying some luck after being dropped twice before the weather intervened. However, Gill looked in complete control, scoring at a quicker pace than usual and easing the pressure on his partner.
“I think it has turned into fire and fire. If you look at the way he played today,” Abhishek said after winning the player of the series award.
“Obviously I’ve been playing cricket with him since 12 days. We understand each other very well. I feel what shots he’s trying to play, which bowlers he’s trying to target. We keep these conversations going, even in training. He knows my game, gives me tips.
“We were roommates from age group cricket. We know a lot about each other.”
‘IT’S OK WHEN A LION HAS TO EAT GRASS’: SURYAKUMAR
Captain Suryakumar, who spoke at the joint press conference, echoed the sentiment and said that Gill and Abhishek are even trying to emulate each other’s strike rates in the nets.
Since joining forces in the Asia Cup, Shubman and Abhishek have scored 476 runs at an average of 43 and a run rate of over 9. Abhishek has been the more explosive of the two, hitting over 180 while Gill has scored 143.
Partnerships since Asia Cup: 476 runs, average 43.00, run rate 9.00+
- Abhishek Sharma: Hitting 180+
- Shubman Gill: Strike rate 143
Suryakumar said it would not always be “fire and fire” and stressed that he wanted his batsmen to adapt to the conditions and play accordingly.
The Indian captain came up with a memorable one-liner as he elaborated on his thoughts. “If you get good batting, those two will push each other. They communicate well, they run hard between the wickets. They’re learning.”
“They complement each other well. If one player is attacking, the other looks to take the game deep. Yes, there are 120 balls in T20 cricket, but there is always more time than you think. Even if you take those 3-4 extra balls, they are experienced players; they cover it easily.
“It was a good learning experience.
“Sometimes, even if a lion has to eat grass, it’s okay.
India secured a 2-1 series win in Australia after the last T20I was washed out. The visitors sealed an insurmountable lead as India successfully defended 167 by 48 runs in the fourth T20I at Gold Coast on Thursday.
Unlike the Gabba, Carrara Oval did not offer a batting paradise. Gill’s 39-ball 46 proved crucial in the fourth T20I, helping India post a competitive total before Australia were bundled out for 119.
– The end
Issued by:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
November 8, 2025
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