Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 13: Former India batter Mohammed Kaif has urged the team management to consider resting Shubman Gill in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa, citing the batter’s recent poor form and heavy workload.

Gill, who returned to the T20I setup six months ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, has struggled, getting dismissed twice within three deliveries in the series. Kaif noted that the vice-captain has been attempting aggressive shots but failing to convert them into runs.

“Look at how he is getting out—caught at slip, stepping out and mistiming. He has tried everything. I think the time has come to give him a break and try players who are proven. Sanju Samson is a top-quality player; he hasn’t received enough chances. Even vice-captains have been dropped before,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

Kaif also highlighted that Gill’s slump is linked to his multiple responsibilities across formats, including Test captaincy, ODI captaincy, and T20 vice-captaincy. “No player can carry that much weight at once. IPL conditions are different; international cricket is at a completely different level. He has been given too much too soon,” Kaif added, stressing the need for gradual delegation of responsibilities.

The former cricketer emphasized that bringing in consistent performers like Sanju Samson alongside Abhishek Sharma could benefit the team ahead of the T20 World Cup.