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The Class of 2018 Under-19 World Cup has given world cricket two of its brightest modern gems. On one side, we have Shubman Gill, the Prince of Indian Cricket, who has seamlessly transitioned into the role of captaincy. On the other hand, we have Rachin Ravindra, the Kiwi sensation named after Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar, who has become the backbone of New Zealand's batting lineup.
As both players stand at the prime age of 26 in early 2026, the debate is heating up: Who is the better opener?
Here is a detailed, format-by-format breakdown of their careers so far.
When it comes to the 50-over format, Shubman Gill is arguably in a league of his own. By age 26, Gill has established himself as a modern ODI great.
Winner: 🇮🇳 Shubman Gill (Dominance in consistency and conversion rate).
This is where the battle gets interesting. While Gill has played some silken knocks at the Gabba and at home, his Test average has fluctuated around the 40-45 mark.
Winner: 🇳🇿 Rachin Ravindra (Better adaptability and overseas consistency).
In the shortest format, the definition of best changes.
Winner: 🤝 Tie (Gill for pure runs, Ravindra for all-around utility).
If you want a pure opener to score 10,000 runs and break records, Shubman Gill is your man. He is technically the closest thing to Virat Kohli.
However, if you are building a team and need a clutch player who can bat in the top order, bowl 10 overs, and fight out a draw in a Test match, Rachin Ravindra edges it.
At age 26, Gill is the better specialist batter, but Ravindra is the more valuable cricketer.




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