Shubman Gill Backs Virat Kohli: ‘Just Let Him Be’

Virat Kohli smashed an unbeaten 139 off 88 balls in Kerala on Sunday, powering India to an eight-wicket victory over West Indies in the first ODI. The hosts chased down 296 with 50 balls to spare. Captain Shubman Gill, who also scored a century, was quick to back his senior batter, saying critics should “just let him be.”

Two Centuries Make Light of the Target

The West Indies total looked competitive on paper, but Kohli and Gill made it look modest. Both batters played with control and fluency, keeping the scoreboard moving and taking the game away from the visitors well before the finish. Kohli’s knock, in particular, was a reminder of how effectively he can dictate a chase.

Gill Praises Kohli’s Freedom

Speaking after the match, Gill said he was delighted with the way Kohli batted. He highlighted the freedom and enjoyment in the veteran’s game, arguing that a player with such a proven record of winning matches for India deserves to be left alone to do what he does best.

Scrutiny, Then a Strong Comeback

Kohli, along with Rohit Sharma, has been under constant scrutiny over the last couple of years. Last year, back-to-back ducks in Australia sparked an unprecedented clamour against him. He silenced some of the noise with a 70-odd in the final game of that series, then piled on the runs in home series against South Africa and New Zealand.

A Landmark on the Road to 2027

The innings also carried a historic note. Kohli became the second batter to reach 15,000 ODI runs, following Sachin Tendulkar. He has made clear that he wants to keep performing until the 2027 World Cup, and with Gill firmly in his corner, India’s dressing room appears united behind that goal.