Gill learnt about exclusion hours before announcement

Shubman Gill learned about his exclusion from the Indian T20 squad on Saturday afternoon, shortly before the BCCI's formal announcement around 2 pm. The Twenty20 World Cup squad and the team for the preceding New Zealand series were named by the selection committee, and Gill was surprised to find himself left out.

Sources indicate Gill had left Ahmedabad on Saturday morning and was en route to Chandigarh when he was informed. He reportedly received a call, though the caller's identity is unclear.

The news came as a surprise, as Gill had been mentally preparing for both the World Cup and the New Zealand series. He had even been gearing up to play the fifth and final T20I against South Africa on Friday.

A niggle in his right foot had ruled him out of the abandoned fourth T20I in Lucknow. He was prepared to play the final match, even if it meant taking painkillers, but was advised against risking an aggravation of the injury with the World Cup ahead.

The BCCI had earlier stated: "Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right foot while batting in the nets on December 16 in Lucknow. After consulting a specialist and receiving treatment from the BCCI medical team, he is improving."

Sanju Samson replaced him in Ahmedabad and has since emerged as India's first-choice partner for Abhishek Sharma in the upcoming T20Is. Ishan Kishan is the third opener in the squad.

Gill, now back in Chandigarh, will play for Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before rejoining the Indian team for the three-match ODI series in early January. While the ODI squad is yet to be announced, Gill is expected to return as captain after missing the recent ODI series against South Africa.