When Former India Coach Ravi Shastri 'Praised' Shubman Gill

image-lqyv8dhdShubman Gill scored 108 runs in three ODIs in New Zealand [X.com]

One of the rising stars of 2023, India's Shubman Gill is facing scrutiny for his lack of runs in Tests, which is considered as a stepping stone to achieving greatness. 

While Gill might have scored 2,154 runs across formats in 2023, his numbers in red-ball format are anything but encouraging for someone who is touted as the next Indian batting superstar.

In the ongoing two-Test tour of South Africa, Gill has struggled against pace and bounce and has been found lacking when up against quality bowlers, which have led to several former players questioning the 24-year-old place in the XI.

However, in 2022, when Gill was still fighting for a place in the Indian ODI side, former coach Ravi Shastri lauded the batter and called him a quality player.

Shastri's remark came after Gill's excellent outing in ODIs in New Zealand, where the batter amassed 92 runs in two matches.

Speaking to Amazon Prime, Shastri mentioned how Gill's hard work and groundedness will enable the player to stay around for a long time. 

Here's what Shastri said

"His emphasis today was in the timing of the ball. Sometimes when you are out of your depth, you want to get on with it by trying to hit the ball hard. He was in good control with good footwork. It is great to watch him play. There is something regal about him. He is a quality player and he’s going to be around for a long time(a decade’s time). He has good work ethics, he trains hard, he’s hungry and he loves this game. He will continue to play because his grooming is good, he is always grounded. 

Shubhman's strike rate has improved in international cricket. He is averaging a healthy 70 plus in international cricket so, you are looking at a player who is developing."

Between 2020 and 2023, Gill played 19 Tests, 44 ODIs, and 13 T20Is for India pilling up 3,613 runs combined, with one double-ton, nine centuries and 18 fifties.