
Shubman Gill and Sourav Ganguly.
Photo : AP
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly shared his thoughts and offered key advice to newly-appointed India captain Shubman Gill before the start of his first assignment. Stating that the young opener needs to sharpen his game, Ganguly explained how the challenging conditions in England will test Gill's mettle.
Speaking to Revsportz, Ganguly highlighted the technical and mental adjustments Gill must make to succeed in England, where the conditions often test even the best.
"Wishing him all the best. I am sure he can work on his Test match batting. He is a top-order batsman," Ganguly said, offering his support to the 24-year-old.
Emphasising the need for technical and mental adjustments, Ganguly noted the challenges posed by the Dukes ball and unpredictable conditions.
"These are not conditions where you just hit through the line. It's going to seam and swing, and the new ball will be different. There can be a time when India is 10 for 2, and he has to come and play the new ball, so the application will be different," he told RevSportz.
He advised Gill to enhance his defensive techniques and judgment, particularly against deliveries outside the off-stump.
"Shubman needs to score a bit more runs in these conditions when it's seaming and swinging. It will be a bit difficult at the start with the new ball. Batting at 100 for 2 and 20 for 4 are two different things, so he has to get the defence right, learn how to leave deliveries outside the off stump," he added.
While acknowledging Gill's growth as a player and leader, Ganguly expressed confidence that success could elevate Gill's status in Test cricket as he leads India in a pivotal five-Test series.
"He still has some work to do as a Test batter. These are conditions where he needs to score runs. He is a young captain, and he will learn. Imagine if he does well. How good is it? He will be hailed as a hero. You live for such situations as a player."
Gill is expected to lead India in a crucial five-Test series in England next month—a challenge that could define not only his captaincy but also his place in the elite ranks of Test cricket.
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