Mohali, September 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India captain Shubman Gill made his much-anticipated debut in the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League on Sunday, smashing a rapid 40 before Fazilka Falcons held their nerve to edge Arshdeep Singh-led Ludhiana Lions by one run in a thrilling Match 15.
Playing his first game of the season for Fazilka, Gill opened the innings in explosive fashion, scoring 40 off just 21 balls with seven fours and a six. His aggressive start sent the crowd into a frenzy and gave the Falcons early momentum.
Ludhiana captain and India pacer Arshdeep Singh won the toss and opted to bowl, but Gill quickly took centre stage. However, Ludhiana fought back through Kartik Chadha, who produced an outstanding spell of 4/9 in four overs and dismissed the prized wicket of Gill.
Prerit Dutta’s 36 off 23 balls and Jaiveer Bhinder Singh’s 21 off 18 helped Fazilka recover from the setbacks and post 170/9 in 20 overs.
Chasing 171, Ludhiana lost wickets at regular intervals, with opener Karteek Sharma making a patient 32 off 29 balls. The Lions appeared to be falling behind before Krish Bhagat and Madhav Pathania launched a sensational late counterattack.
The duo added an unbeaten 61 runs off only 29 balls. Pathania smashed 37 not out from 16 deliveries, while Bhagat remained unbeaten on 28 off 23.
Needing 19 runs from the final over, Ludhiana took the contest to the last delivery. With six required off the final ball, Pathania managed only a boundary, leaving the Lions one run short at 169/9.
Gill was named Player of the Match for his explosive debut performance at the top of the order as Fazilka Falcons secured a dramatic victory.
FOLLOW NOW
