India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill is set to be named the BCCI Cricketer of the Year at the annual Naman Awards, scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026, in New Delhi. Gill will receive the Polly Umrigar Award in recognition of his outstanding performances across formats in the past year.
Gill amassed a total of 1,764 runs across formats at an average of 49, including seven centuries and three fifties. His most notable achievement came in the drawn away Test series against England in 2025, where he scored 754 runs at an average of over 70, cementing his reputation as one of India’s most reliable top-order batters.
The 26-year-old cricketer, who captains India in Tests and ODIs, has been instrumental in leading the team through a successful phase. Despite not being part of the T20 squad that defended the World Cup crown last year, Gill’s consistency in the longer formats has made him a standout performer.
Alongside Gill, former India captain and head coach Rahul Dravid will be honored with the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for his immense contribution to Indian cricket. The ceremony will also celebrate India’s “Golden Year,” during which national teams won five ICC trophies across different categories.
The BCCI’s recognition of Gill and Dravid highlights both the emerging leadership in Indian cricket and the enduring legacy of its legends. The awards are expected to draw significant attention as they celebrate excellence and mark a historic year for Indian cricket.
