Bhubaneswar, Dec. 30 -- Shubman Gill's absence from India's T20 World Cup squad has become one of the most talked-about selection decisions ahead of the tournament beginning in February next year. The right-hander, who was vice-captain during India's recent T20I series against South Africa, failed to make the final 15 after the team management reworked its combinations at the last moment.

The rethink centred on strengthening the top order with wicketkeeper-openers, which altered the balance of the XI. Sanju Samson returned to his preferred role at the top, Ishan Kishan was brought back as the reserve opener, and Abhishek Sharma continued as the first-choice option. As a result, Gill found himself on the outside despite his leadership rol...