Why Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma Fear Yuvraj Singh’s Mentorship
In the ever-evolving saga of Indian cricket, few names resonate with the same reverence as Yuvraj Singh. The former all-rounder, who played a pivotal role in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs, may have hung up his boots, but his influence continues to shape the future of the game. From behind the scenes, Yuvraj has taken on the role of a mentor to two of India’s brightest talents—Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma—instilling in them a mixture of awe and fear with his unrelenting dedication to their growth.
Recently, Yuvraj’s mother, Shabnam Singh, shed light on the unique dynamic between the veteran and his protégés. In a candid interview, she revealed how Yuvraj remains deeply invested in their progress. ‘He watches every single game they play and calls them up in the evening to dissect their performances. They are just petrified of him,’ she said with a laugh. This fear, however, is not born out of intimidation but from the immense respect they hold for a man who has seen it all and expects nothing less than excellence.
Yuvraj himself has admitted to a surprising role reversal in emotions. ‘My mom used to get nervous when I was batting. Now, I feel the same when Shubman and Abhishek are at the crease,’ he confessed during a recent interaction. Having spent countless hours training and mentoring them since their formative years in Punjab, Yuvraj’s bond with the duo runs deep. His nervous energy is a testament to the emotional investment he has made in their careers, watching them grow from raw talents to key pillars of the Indian team.
Shubman Gill, often hailed as the future of Indian batting, has already carved a niche for himself with his impeccable technique and unflappable temperament. At just 24, Gill has amassed over 1400 runs in ODIs at an average of 61.37, including a double century against New Zealand in 2023—a feat that marked him as a generational talent. Tipped to be India’s next ODI captain, he has also led the team in T20Is, showcasing maturity beyond his years. Yuvraj’s guidance has evidently played a crucial role in shaping Gill’s approach to the game, pushing him to refine his skills with every match.
Similarly, Abhishek Sharma has emerged as a dynamic force in India’s T20 setup. The 23-year-old Punjab batter is known for his fearless stroke play and ability to dominate attacks from the get-go. His performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Sunrisers Hyderabad—where he smashed 484 runs in the 2024 season at a strike rate of over 200—have translated into international success, making him a vital cog in India’s plans for the shortest format. Under Yuvraj’s watchful eye, Abhishek has honed his versatility, balancing aggression with responsibility.
While the word ‘scared’ might suggest trepidation, it’s clear that Gill and Sharma’s fear of Yuvraj is rooted in a desire to live up to his towering expectations. Yuvraj’s legacy as a game-changer—who famously hit six sixes in an over during the 2007 T20 World Cup—serves as both inspiration and pressure for the young stars. His mentorship style, intense yet nurturing, ensures that they remain grounded even as they scale new heights in international cricket.
As Indian cricket marches forward, the shadow of Yuvraj Singh looms large—not as a specter, but as a guiding light. For Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, the fear of letting down their mentor fuels their hunger to succeed. And for fans, this behind-the-scenes glimpse into Yuvraj’s enduring impact is a reminder of why he remains one of the most cherished figures in the sport. With the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, one can only imagine the heights these two will reach under his unwavering guidance.