Shubman Gill, the vice-captain of India’s T20I team, delivered a strong performance in the Asia Cup 2025 opener against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), scoring 20 not out in 9 balls. India won the match by 9 wickets. Gill’s excellence extends beyond the cricket field; he is known for keeping his word. He honored a promise to his childhood friend and brought the juice seller’s son with him to Dubai. This individual, Avinash Kumar, has been a friend of Shubman Gill since their childhood.
The Genesis of Their Bond
Shubman Gill, accompanied by his father Lakhwinder Gill, frequented the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali for practice sessions. Ramvilas Shah, a native of Kushinagar district, Uttar Pradesh, operated a juice stall near Gate No. 1 of the stadium. Gill and his father were regular customers, enjoying the juice. Avinash Kumar, Ramvilas’s son, was a fast bowler who practiced at the grounds adjacent to the Mohali stadium.
A Turning Point in 2014
In 2014, Lakhwinder Gill noticed Avinash selling juice. In an interview, Avinash recalled Shubman Gill’s father questioning why he was selling juice. Avinash responded, “I have stopped playing cricket and work in a photo studio. I am here today as my father is unwell.” Lakhwinder Gill expressed his disapproval, highlighting the potential of cricket to transform his family’s life. A week later, he shared a video of a side-arm thrower with Avinash, encouraging him to resume practice.
Avinash’s Life Transformed
Avinash shared that he started practicing side-arm throwing based on Shubman Gill’s father’s advice. During this time, his friendship with Shubman Gill grew. Avinash proudly stated, “I knew him from the academy, but now I’m his personal side-arm thrower. That was the day, and this is the day – we are together.”
Financial Support and Gratitude
Avinash mentioned that he used to earn about 150 to 200 rupees daily, but he never accepted any money from Shubman or his father because they were his mentors. They gave him gifts on holidays like Holi and Diwali and also assisted his family during hard times. He will always be grateful for their support.
Professional Opportunity in 2019
In 2019, Avinash became a side-arm thrower for the Punjab Ranji team and earned immediate respect from senior players like Mandeep Singh and Gurkeerat Mann. He also built relationships with young players such as Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, and Anmolpreet Singh. In 2024, Shubman Gill became the captain of the Gujarat Super Titans.
Avinash’s Dream Realized
Avinash stated, “Yaar, now you are captain, take me to IPL too.” Shubman’s encouraging words gave him hope. He told him not to worry.
Gill’s Commitment: A Promise Fulfilled
Avinash revealed in an interview that he was playing with his son in Chandigarh earlier this year when Shubman called, telling him to pack his bags because a call from the Gujarat Titans management was imminent. He received gifts of spikes, clothing, and a mobile, but the gesture was more profound—it was invaluable.
Preparation for the Test Series
Before IPL 2025, Shubman’s focus was on the five-match Test series against England. Along with his childhood friend and mentor Khushpreet Singh Aulakh, he needed someone to challenge him with the red ball.
A Bond of Brotherhood
Avinash explained that KP Paji suggested that Shubman start practicing with the red ball during the IPL. When Avinash joined the Gujarat Titans, Shubman asked him to bowl in the nets with the red ball, which he did. This helped Shubman Gill significantly in England.
The Foundation of Friendship
Meeting Shubman at his father’s stall was a blessing for Avinash. He now considers Gill his family. That stall was the place where Shubman not only found juice but also a true friend and confidant.