India skipper Suryakumar Yadav hailed the opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill as a “fire and ice combination” following India’s six-wicket triumph over Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super Fours clash on Sunday. He also emphasized the importance of friendship and mutual understanding between batting partners at the top of the order.
Chasing 172, Gill (47) and Abhishek (74) dismantled Pakistan’s bowling attack with contrasting styles—Gill anchoring with his orthodox approach while Abhishek went on a power-hitting spree. Their explosive 105-run opening stand in just 9.5 overs set the tone for India’s comfortable victory.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Suryakumar said, “The way the boys are stepping up in every game is making my job very easy. They complement each other really well. It’s like a fire and ice combination.”
The skipper praised Abhishek’s aggressive knock, which marked his best performance of the tournament, highlighting his relentless work ethic and never-say-die attitude. “He is very selfless in his batting style. He never misses a practice session, always wants to be active. If you keep working hard, God has plans for you,” Suryakumar noted.
On Gill, the captain lauded his ability to balance risk and reward, pointing to his smart shot selection and even a reverse sweep that delighted him. “We all know what Shubman brings to the table. He backed his shots and played less risky, high-reward strokes. That reverse sweep was something he has been practising in the nets, and it was great to see it in the game,” he said.
Beyond their batting, Suryakumar highlighted the duo’s camaraderie off the field as a factor in their on-field success. “It is very important to be good friends off the field if you open together. You don’t have to say much on the ground—just a look is enough to understand. That friendship shows in the way they bat together,” he added.
With their contrasting yet complementary styles, Gill and Abhishek have given India a dynamic opening combination, one that Suryakumar believes could be crucial as the tournament progresses.
