Former India head coach Ravi Shastri praised Shubman Gill for his composed century on Day 1 of the second Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Shastri noted a significant improvement in Gill’s technique in English conditions, particularly his ability to avoid playing with hard hands, something he struggled with in the past.
Gill, 25, brought up his second century as captain with a well-executed sweep off Joe Root in the 79th over. His unbeaten 114 was a mature and controlled innings that helped India cross the 300-run mark by stumps, with 85 overs bowled on the opening day.
In a conversation with Sky Sports, Ravi Shastri highlighted how Shubman Gill has developed a solid defensive game, grown more confident in his technique, and added a wide range of strokes to his batting variety.
“Gill’s performance was superb. It was disciplined, he looked solid, looked fantastic. He has worked hard on his defence. When he last came to England, he played with hard hands, pushed at the ball, but now, the top hand is in control. He allows the ball to come to him, trusts in his defence and has all the shots in the book when he goes on the attack.”
“Gill Wanted to Bowl First, But This is India’s Best Chance to Beat England”: Michael Vaughan
Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels that the Indian team is well-positioned to win the ongoing match and suggested that the outcome of the first Test might have been different if India had held onto their catches. Speaking to BBC Sport, Vaughan remarked:
“Shubman Gill said he’d have bowled but I think this is the way India can beat England – if they score 450. India should’ve won the first Test match if they held their chances. India are doing what they need to do to win this game.”
“England bowled well enough to get two or three more wickets but the rub of the green with the umpire’s calls has gone the way of India. This is a flat wicket and there’s not a lot there for the seamers or spinners and England should score a lot on here if it doesn’t crack.”
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