India’s top-order collapse in the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Gabba has drawn sharp criticism from cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar. With Australia firmly in control, Gavaskar expressed disappointment over Shubman Gill’s poor shot selection, particularly the expansive drive he attempted early in his innings, which resulted in his dismissal.
Gill’s Risky Drive Raises Eyebrows
Facing Mitchell Starc’s good-length delivery outside off-stump, Gill went for an ambitious drive on just his third ball. The shot, played away from his body, edged towards the gully, where Mitchell Marsh executed a stunning catch. Gavaskar, unimpressed by the risky stroke so early in the innings, emphasized the importance of situational awareness.
“Leave your image in the dressing room,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports. “Certain shots can be dangerous at the start of your innings, especially when you haven’t gauged the conditions. Save those strokes for when you are well-set, around 30-40 runs, and then you can play them with more confidence.”
“Shot Selection Was Poor”
Gavaskar didn’t mince words while evaluating Gill’s decision-making. “It wasn’t the best shot selection,” he remarked. “While it was an excellent catch by Marsh, Gill could have left that delivery alone. It would have gone harmlessly to the keeper. Unfortunately, now he’s back in the dugout.”
India’s Struggles at the Gabba
India’s batting woes extended beyond Gill, as the top order faltered against Australia’s formidable pace attack. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli were also dismissed playing loose shots, while Rishabh Pant followed soon after. KL Rahul was the lone batter who showed some resistance, and he now partners Rohit Sharma in the middle.
Australia had earlier piled up a commanding first-innings total of 445, bolstered by centuries from Steve Smith (101) and Travis Head (152), along with Alex Carey’s crucial 70. On the bowling front, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins capitalized on the fragile Indian batting lineup.
India Faces Uphill Battle as Rain Looms
With Australia poised to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, Day 3 saw some respite for India as rain halted play. However, the visitors remain in a precarious position heading into Day 4, with further rain interruptions expected on the final two days. For India, the onus is on KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma to lead a fightback and salvage the Test.
