New Delhi: India captain Shubman Gill delivered a powerful message after winning the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award for the best international cricketer (men) 2025, highlighting the expectations that come with representing one of the world’s top teams.
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Gill, speaking after receiving the BCCI Naman Award honour, highlighted the collective effort behind India’s emergence as a dominant force while stressing that their reputation as a popular nation has been hard-earned.
“It’s the effort of everyone – whether it’s the batting coach Goldi Bhai, the bowling coach, the fielding coach; they all have worked tirelessly to get this team to where it is today. That’s why we are considered one of the most fearless teams in the world and we are seen as favorites wherever we go. That tag is hard-earned,” Gill said.
The 26-year-old also reflected on the importance of joining the elite list of past recipients, saying the recognition was very special.
“Obviously, it feels very amazing to be recognized among cricketers, legends and icons who have received this award before me. It is truly a huge honor every time you step on the field to represent your country… To excel in the sport and to be recognized by the BCCI is a huge honour,” he added.
Shubman Gill praises Gambhir and support staff
Gill praised head coach Gautam Gambhir and the wider support staff, including the Center of Excellence, for shaping the team’s fearless attitude.
Looking back on the past year, Gill called it an “amazing journey” and pointed to India’s resilience in the England series. “Going into the England series and coming back from where we were in the draw after the first Test… it’s been a great year,” he said, while also mentioning strong performances by West Indies and the Asia Cup.
Looking ahead, Gill acknowledged the importance of the upcoming Test calendar, with crucial series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Australia set to seal India’s hopes of clinch the World Test Championship.
“We have some very crucial Test series coming up. Hopefully we can win most of them and qualify for the final,” he said.
Despite all the accolades, Gill downplayed discussions of legacy and instead focused on team identity. “We want to be seen as a team that doesn’t give up easily. We want to instill that character,” he noted.