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"I Want To Be Best Batter In Series": Shubman Gill Promises Big On The Eve Of 1st India-England Test

Abhinav Tyagi

Shubman Gill - (Source :@Gill/X.com)Shubman Gill - (Source :@Gill/X.com)

On the eve of the first Test between India and England at Headingley, Leeds, India’s new skipper Shubman Gill addressed the press. During his first press conference as captain, the 25-year-old faced several tough questions, including inquiries about his leadership style.

Gill also spoke about handling the pressure of his first full-fledged assignment as India’s captain. The right-handed batter explained that when he walks out to bat, he wants to focus solely on his batting, not letting the captaincy weigh on his mind.

“When I want to go out there and bat, I want to play as a batter and not think about the captaincy, which can put pressure on me. I want to be the best batter in the series,” Gill said in the press conference as quoted by RevSportz.

Gill’s Poor Record in SENA Countries

Before the start of the series, the newly appointed India Test captain was under heavy scrutiny, with many fans unhappy about the decision to name Shubman as Rohit Sharma’s successor.

Although Gill is the fourth-youngest India Test captain, the 25-year-old has a relatively poor batting record in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia), particularly in England. As a result, he has received significant criticism.

Shubman Gill’s statistics in SENA countries are underwhelming. In 21 innings across these nations, he averages only 25.7, with 20 dismissals and just two half-centuries, totalling 514 runs.

Gill Drops Hints of Batting at No.4

England have already named their playing XI for the first Test, while India have kept their lineup under wraps. However, Gill hinted at the possibility of following in the footsteps of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli by batting at No.4.

“After Virat bhai retired, I and GG bhai discussed my batting at that number. We have one or two different combinations ready. We’ll have a look at the pitch and take the call,” he told Sahil Malhotra.

If Gill decides to bat at No.4, then Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings.