India’s campaign at the T20I World Cup 2024 was a captivating one, with the team clinching the prestigious title after thrashing South Africa in the final. Meanwhile, an intriguing narrative was unfolding behind the scenes, concerning two of the team’s most experienced players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both veterans had announced their retirement from T20 internationals following India’s victory.
All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja had also announced his T20I retirement at the same time. But what many didn’t know was that Rohit and Kohli's participation in the showpiece event was not as certain as it seemed. Indian opener Shubman Gill has now revealed that there was no guarantee that Kohli and Rohit would play the T20I World Cup.
“Winning the 2024 World Cup was extremely satisfying. I remember I was practicing in Washington at that time with my best friends and mentors. I watched the last four overs; I didn’t see the whole match, but watching those final overs and seeing us win was such a relief, especially after the previous ODI World Cup," Gill said while speaking on Disney + Hotstar's show Inside out with Gill.
“After the World Cup (2023 ODI), we weren't sure if Rohit Bhai or Virat Bhai would be playing in the T20 World Cup and watching them win that tournament was very satisfying for me. I think with that win, we broke the jinx of not winning an ICC trophy and I truly believe this is the start of something magical and special for the Indian cricket team," Gill said.