‘This probably was not the best test of his ability’ – Former India opener backs Shubman Gill ahead of New Zealand, Australia series

Published on January 16, 2023

Although Shubman Gill scored a hundred in the third ODI of the recently-concluded series between India and Sri Lanka, Gautam Gambhir believes the elegant opener faces bigger tests against New Zealand and Australia. On January 15, Gill scored 116 runs off 97 balls to help the Men in Blue set a lofty 391-run target for the Lankan Lions in Thiruvananthapuram. Then, their bowlers dismissed the visitors for just 73 runs to secure a commanding 317-run victory.

“This probably was not the best test of his ability and on the international stage as well. But you are not going to take it away from him. He has got a second hundred, that’s what you can do. This opponent was for everyone but he has taken that opportunity with both hands,” Gambir during a discussion on Star Sports.

Those bowling attacks will test him, especially Australia: Gautam Gambhir

The former Indian opener explained why Gill would want to maintain his recent success against the Kiwis and Australians.

“He will have much better opponents when it comes to New Zealand and Australia. Yes, he has started off the year really well and he would want to continue especially against New Zealand and then the four Test matches if he gets that opportunity because Rohit Sharma is coming back, and then the one-dayers against Australia,” he stated.

Before the World Cup later this year, the team management will like to test the Punjab opener against more formidable threats, according to Gambhir.

“Those bowling attacks will test him, especially Australia. I am not sure about New Zealand because they do not have Tim Southee and Trent Boult. But you want to test yourself against the best, because come the World Cup if he is in your scheme of things and if he has to start, so that you get to know about your game more,” he said.

In the match on Sunday, Gill put up partnerships with Rohit and Kohli that totaled 95 and 131 runs, respectively. The youngster should be well-served by his time in the middle with the two Indian batting powerhouses.