Sanjay Manjrekar Backs Shubman Gill (Source: @ICC/x.com)
Facing immense criticism before stepping into the Test series against England, Team India’s Test captain Shubman Gill silenced all critics with his batting brilliance. After smashing three centuries in the first two Tests, Gill faced a setback in the third Test.
In the Lord’s Test, his quick dismissals added woes in Team India’s batting order. As the team prepares for the next Test, former batter Sanjay Manjrekar is hopeful that Gill will ignite a run-scoring spree.
Manjrekar Remains Optimistic On Gill’s Comeback
Once criticized for overseries records, Team India’s Test skipper Shubman Gill turned into something new after stepping into Rohit Sharma’s shoes. After smashing a thrilling hundred in the first Test, he missed the 150-run mark by just 3 runs. In the second Test match, the cricket world witnessed the best of Gill smashed 430 runs in both innings.
But in the Lord’s Test, his rhythm fell apart, as the Indian skipper scored 16 and 6 in both innings. As his struggle sparked buzz, former Indian player Sanjay Manjrekar remained hopeful of Gill’s mighty comeback. Speaking to JioHotstar, Manjrekar said he believes Gill will introspect, regroup, and bounce back strong in the upcoming fourth Test.
“I believe he has the ability to carry forward his form. During this break, perhaps with some introspection and conversations with his friends and father about the recent altercation. He just needs to focus on his captaincy, fielding, tactics, and batting. If he does that, I believe the run-making machine that was once in motion is well-oiled and will start running again at Old Trafford,” he said.
Manjrekar Cheers India’s Grit, Even As Gill Struggles
In the iconic Lord’s Test, Gill struggled with the bat, but the Indian side showed resilience. Chasing 387 runs in the first innings, the visitors leveled the score, depending on KL Rahul’s classy hundred and Pant-Jadeja’s outstanding knocks. As the fourth Test approaches, Sanjay Manjrekar applauded India’s fighting spirit, noting how the team stood tall even without Gill firing.
“His role is important, but India will also reflect on the fact that in the third Test match at Lord's, there was no contribution from Gill with the bat. Despite that, India's batting line-up still managed to challenge England. So, that's a good takeaway - we are not completely dependent on Gill,” he added.
As the fourth Test match of the series is set to take place at the Old Trafford Stadium but Team India’s record at the venue is raising eyebrows. But this time, they’ll be eager to rewrite the script and break the jinx.
