NEW DELHI: The BCCI selection committee's decision to drop Shubman Gill from the T20 World Cup squad has come as a surprise to many, especially as it followed his elevation as captain in Tests and ODIs and his appointment as vice-captain in T20Is.

However, Gill has failed to fire in the shortest format, which led to his exclusion from the 15-member squad, having managed just 291 runs in his last 15 T20Is in 2025 at an average of 24.25.

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed the decision to leave Gill out of India's T20 World Cup squad, insisting the omission should not be seen as a judgement on the batter's quality.

Pointing to the fierce competition for places in the shortest format, Harbhajan lauded Gill's solid technique and temperament, while expressing confidence that the youngster will return stronger. He also underlined Gill's stature in Indian cricket, noting that he continues to lead the national side in Tests and ODIs.

"It's not a signal to Gill. He was not taking his place for granted. The competition is so much and they've got too many players in the present scenario who can fill that slot and can do well for the team. This is not the end of the road for Gill; he's a great, great player with beautiful technique, and he will make a brilliant comeback, and not to forget, he's still the Test captain for India," Harbhajan told reporters during the launch event of the 4th season of the Legends 90 League.

Harbhajan said the selectors' call was driven by the need to strike the right balance for the format rather than any doubts about Gill's ability. Reiterating that Gill is a high-quality cricketer, he added that the snub should be viewed as a temporary hurdle and backed the youngster to return in stronger form.

"Over there, when I was listening to Ajit or even Surya, they were saying that they were looking at which combination fits where for this format. So, given those conditions and that combination, with that kind of respect, the team has been selected that way. So Gill is a class player, there is no doubt about it, and he'll make a great comeback," he added.