India, Sept. 9 -- Over a decade ago, a young left-arm spinner from Ludhiana would stay back after training at the Punjab Cricket Association Academy in Mohali, just to bowl a few extra overs. Among those who quietly faced him in the nets was a wiry 12-year-old with a serious look and quick feet. That boy was Shubman Gill.

"I have known Shubman since he was a kid, but I don't know if he remembers me," said Simranjeet Singh, now 35 and preparing for the biggest game of his cricketing career - an Asia Cup clash against India.

"It was around 2011 or 2012. We used to train from 6am to 11am, and Shubman would come with his father right at the end. I was someone who bowled a lot after our session was over. I must have bowled to him countless t...