In the Asia Cup 2025 opener against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Shubman Gill, the vice-captain of the Indian T20I team, batted brilliantly, scoring 20 runs not out in 9 balls. India won the match by 9 wickets. Gill’s prowess isn’t confined to the cricket field; he’s known for his integrity and keeping his promises. He honored a pledge to his childhood friend by bringing the son of a juice seller with him to Dubai. This individual, Avinash Kumar, has been a close friend of Shubman Gill since they were young.
How Their Paths Intertwined
Shubman Gill and his father, Lakhwinder Gill, used to frequent the IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali for practice. Ramvilas Shah, a resident of Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, operated a juice stall at Gate No. 1 of the stadium. Gill and his father were regular customers, often enjoying fresh juice. Avinash Kumar, Ramvilas’s son, was a fast bowler who practiced at the grounds behind the Mohali stadium.
A Pivotal Moment in 2014
In 2014, Lakhwinder Gill noticed Avinash working at the juice stall. In an interview, Avinash shared that Shubman Gill’s father inquired why he was selling juice. Avinash explained, “I’ve quit cricket and am working in a photo studio. I’m here today as my father isn’t well.” Lakhwinder Gill expressed his concern, emphasizing how cricket could positively impact Avinash’s life. A week later, he showed Avinash a video of a side-arm thrower and encouraged him to restart training.
Life-Changing Transformation for Avinash
Avinash revealed that he began practicing side-arm throwing based on Shubman Gill’s father’s guidance. During this period, his friendship with Shubman Gill flourished. “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,” Avinash said proudly.
Financial Support and Gratitude
Avinash mentioned that he typically earned around 150 to 200 rupees daily, but he never accepted money from Shubman or his father because they were his mentors. They gifted him presents during festivals like Holi and Diwali and supported his family during challenging times. He remains forever grateful.
Professional Advancement in 2019
In 2019, Avinash became a side-arm thrower for the Punjab Ranji team and gained immediate respect from senior players like Mandeep Singh and Gurkeerat Mann. He also built strong relationships with young players like Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, and Anmolpreet Singh. In 2024, Shubman Gill became the captain of the Gujarat Super Titans.
Avinash’s Aspirations and Reality
Avinash recounted, “Yaar, now you’re captain, take me to IPL too.” Shubman’s reassuring words instilled hope. He was told not to worry.
Gill’s Promise Kept
Avinash revealed in an interview that while he was playing with his son in Chandigarh earlier this year, 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 value of the gesture was immeasurable.
Preparing for the Test Series
Before IPL 2025, Shubman was focused on the five-match Test series against England. He needed someone, along with his childhood friend and mentor Khushpreet Singh Aulakh, to challenge him with the red ball.
A Lasting Friendship
Avinash shared that KP Paji suggested 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 proved immensely helpful for Shubman Gill in England.
The Genesis of Their Friendship
Meeting Shubman at his father’s stall was a blessing for Avinash. He now regards Gill as family. The stall provided not only fresh juice but also a true friend and confidant for Shubman.