Shubman Gill attributes Test success to improved defensive game
What's the story
Indian cricketer Shubman Gill has attributed his recent success in Test cricket against England, to enhancements in his "defensive game."
Before the home series against England, Gill's average in Test cricket was a modest 30.59.
However, he significantly improved his performance by scoring a total of 452 runs across nine innings at an average of 56.50.
This impressive run included two centuries and as many half-centuries.
Defensive approach
Gill's strategy against spinners
Gill shared his strategy at Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he is set to lead India A in the 2024 Duleep Trophy opener.
"I worked on my defense a little bit more, especially against the spinners," he said as per ESPNcricinfo.
Gill emphasized that confidence in one's defensive game is crucial when playing on turning tracks.
He believes this approach allows for more scoring shots and can counterbalance the impact of frequent T20 cricket on a player's defensive skills.
Position change
Gill's shift in batting position
In the second Test match against England in Visakhapatnam, Gill scored a commendable 104 runs during the second innings.
He revealed that this performance came after he requested team management to move him from his usual opener position to No. 3, a change that seems to have paid off.
Despite his improved performance, Gill admitted that he still has considerable work to do as a Test player and is determined to continue improving.
Leadership growth
Gill's leadership journey and future aspirations
Gill has had several opportunities to demonstrate his leadership skills recently, including captaining Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League and leading India in the five T20Is against Zimbabwe.
He stated that being part of the Indian leadership group did not add any "extra pressure," but rather required him to understand his teammates better.
Gill was also named Team India's vice-captain for the T20Is and ODIs against Sri Lanka, further showcasing his growing role within the team.
Captaincy insights
Gill's perspective on captaincy and performance
Gill believes that his role as a batsman remains unchanged regardless of his leadership position.
"Even if I am the captain or the vice-captain, the aim is to get runs and make my team win," he said.
He also highlighted the importance of understanding teammates better when in a leadership role, and emphasized that leading with performance is crucial.