India’s young batting talent, Shubman Gill, is under scrutiny after another failure in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Gill managed just 1 run in the first innings of the Brisbane Test before being dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Attempting an expansive drive to a delivery far outside the off-stump, Gill’s poor shot selection drew criticism from fans and former cricketers alike.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra voiced concerns over Gill’s underwhelming performances in Test matches outside Asia, calling it a troubling sign for the Indian team, especially with him batting at the crucial No. 3 position.
A Worrying Trend in Gill’s Numbers
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted Gill’s dismal record in overseas Tests. “It’s been 16 innings outside Asia, and you haven’t crossed 40 even once. Many times, you’ve been dismissed for single-digit or early double-digit scores. If you’re batting at No. 3 for Team India in Test cricket, such numbers are a serious concern,” Chopra remarked.
Gill’s last significant knock outside Asia came during the 2020-21 tour of Australia when he played a match-winning innings of 91 in India’s historic victory at the Gabba. However, since then, his form has dipped dramatically. Over eight Tests outside Asia during this period, Gill has scored just 200 runs, with a highest score of 36.
Technical Flaws and Risky Shot Selection
Chopra also pointed out a recurring flaw in Gill’s batting—his tendency to play extravagant drives. While aesthetically pleasing when executed well, these shots come with a high degree of risk, often leading to edges or catches behind the stumps.
“Shubman Gill loves playing the booming drive. When it connects, it looks fantastic, but it often goes straight to the slips or behind the wickets. He seems so accustomed to throwing his hands at the ball that he struggles to control it,” Chopra explained.
A Broader Issue with India’s Playing Style
Chopra argued that Gill’s struggles are indicative of a larger issue with India’s batting approach in overseas conditions. Using examples from the same Test, Chopra noted how Yashasvi Jaiswal, too, fell victim to an overly aggressive stroke early in his innings. “Jaiswal drove hard on the first ball. While he was unlucky to find a fielder on the second ball, the initial shot itself could have easily gone to the gully,” he observed.
What Lies Ahead for Gill?
Shubman Gill’s talent is undeniable, but his inconsistency outside Asia is becoming a growing concern for the Indian team. With India’s middle order heavily reliant on solid contributions at No. 3, Gill’s performances will be under even closer scrutiny in the remaining matches of the series.
As the team management and coaching staff evaluate his technique and approach, the young batter will need to adapt quickly if he hopes to cement his place in the side and fulfill his potential on the international stage.
