England has seized a commanding victory in the first Test of their five-match series against India, mounting an impressive comeback despite trailing by 190 runs after the first innings. In what could be considered one of the most remarkable turnarounds in the annals of Test cricket history, this win has brought to light the vulnerabilities in the Indian team, with Shubman Gill becoming the focal point of scrutiny due to his faltering performance at the crucial number three position.
Shubman Gill, a promising talent in the Indian cricket echelon, has been the subject of significant discussion since his permanent move to the number three slot in Test cricket. Despite the opportunities presented, Gill’s output has been underwhelming, amassing a meager 142 runs across nine innings with a top score of just 36 to his name. His ease and comfort that are typically on display in limited-overs formats seem to dissipate when it comes to the Test arena.
Anil Kumble, the former Indian head coach, recently delved into the subject of Gill’s form, particularly emphasizing the difficulties Gill has been facing against spin bowling. Kumble highlighted that the young batsman needs to evolve in his approach and adapt his technique to be more effective in spinning conditions.
“He needs to be a lot freer. He needs to score runs. He needs to come up with his own plan of action to tackle spin because he has hard hands. It’s good for good surfaces where the ball is coming on nicely, and the faster bowlers are bowling at you. But when the ball is turning, when it’s slow, you need to use your hands and control and check your shots. That’s something he needs to work on. It can’t be one flow all the time. Yes, four days before the next Test, can you work on your skill? I think it’s all the mindset. You can certainly work on your mindset, and you have the best possible person as the coach (Rahul Dravid) to manage that for Shubman Gill,” Kumble articulated.
Prior to Gill’s ascension, Cheteshwar Pujara held the number three position, earning his spot over the course of more than 100 Test matches before being excluded from the team after the World Test Championship final. According to Kumble, not only is Gill receiving substantial support within the team, but he is also being afforded leniencies that were not extended to his predecessor, Pujara.
“He has been given the cushion perhaps even a Cheteshwar Pujara didn’t get, because although he (Pujara) has played over 100 Tests, I keep coming back to him mainly because that was his place not too long ago. Pujara played in that World Test Championship final and post that, it’s been Shubman Gill, who’s been moving from the opener’s slot, and he himself wanted to bat at No. 3. So, when you want to bat at No. 3 especially in India because you have that talent, you certainly need to work on your game. He has the skills, he is young and he’s learning, but he needs to do it in Vizag, otherwise, the pressure will be on him,” Kumble said.
Despite these insights, Shubman Gill’s talent and potential are undeniable, as is his importance to the Indian cricket team’s future. The question that remains is whether he can translate his white-ball prowess into the Test arena.
Meanwhile, in related cricket stories, there is a hovering concern about Ravindra Jadeja’s availability for the second Test as he awaits his scan reports. Spectators have been treated to a stunning display of athleticism by Trent Boult, who, defying his age, made a one-handed catch in the ILT20. In another discussion, Nasser Hussain shared his beliefs that the aggressive approach termed ‘Bazball,’ can indeed be effective even on Indian pitches.
The unfolding saga promises to be a captivating narrative as Test cricket continues to challenge and redefine players’ careers and legacies. For Shubman Gill, the next innings could be a defining moment both for himself and for the team he represents. It’s a chance to silence the critics and solidify his place among cricket’s elite.
