Shubman Gill meets Ranchi airport standing guard, GT teammate Robin Minz's father

Shubman Gill surprised Gujarat Titans’ new recruit Robin Minz’s father, Francis, at the Bisra Munda Airport in Ranchi on Wednesday. The superstar batter took time out to meet and greet the retired Army man, who has been working as a security official at the airport while on his way out of the city after the Test match against England.Â

Shubman Gill, who will lead Gujarat Titans for the first time in IPL 2024, took to social media to share a photograph of his meeting with Francis Xavier Minz, acknowledging the 48-year-old’s efforts to support his son, Robin’s dreams. Robin, who was bought by Gujarat Titans for Rs 3.60 crore after a bidding war, will become the first tribal man to represent a team in the Indian Premier League (IPL).Â

“Honoured to meet Robin Minz’s father. Your journey and hard work have been inspiring. Looking forward to seeing you in the IPL,” Shubman Gill wrote in his Instagram story.Â

Screengrab from Shubman Gill’s Instagram story

Shubman Gill was seen spending considerable time with Francis Xavier, who was on duty on Wednesday at the Ranchi airport. 21-year-old Robin will be keen on making the most of his opportunity at Gujarat Titans, known for backing young talents in their nascent stint in the league.Â

Robin’s cricketing journey began unconventionally when his father, noticing his son’s interest in hitting pebbles with sticks, crafted a bat out of wood for him. Despite facing financial hardships, Francis ensured that Robin had the necessary gear to purse his passion, even if it meant borrowing money or sacrificing essential needs. The family’s sacrifices paid off when Robin, known affectionately as “Ranchi ka Gayle” for his aggressive batting style, caught the attention of the cricketing world.

In December 2023, during the IPL auction, Robin Minz’s life changed forever. With a base price of just Rs. 20 lakh, he became the subject of a fierce bidding war between Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and ultimately, Gujarat Titans who bought him paying 18 times more than the base price.Â

With MS Dhoni as his idol and mentor, Robin is poised to make a significant impact in the higher stages of competitive cricket.

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