Shubman Gill has delivered a captain’s masterclass in the ongoing Test series against England, not only breaking batting records but also cementing his position as a new cricketing icon.
A Historic Series for Gill
Shubman Gill has etched his name in cricketing history with an extraordinary performance. In a single Test match, he achieved the rare feat of scoring a double hundred and another 150-plus score, surpassing the legendary Allan Border’s record of two 150s.
His total of 430 runs in the Test also eclipsed Sunil Gavaskar’s long-standing Indian record of 344 runs in a single Test match from 1971. Gill’s bat is truly rewriting the record books.
The “Star Boy” Recognition
Gill’s exceptional form has garnered widespread praise from the cricketing fraternity. India’s former captain, Virat Kohli, affectionately dubbed him “star boy” on Instagram, celebrating his record-breaking achievements.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain lauded Gill, calling him “chanceless and elegant” and noting that the Indian captain is “in the form of his life.” Even young English cricketers like Jamie Smith and Harry Brook showed their respect, acknowledging his batting greatness on the field.
A Captain’s Impact
Beyond the runs, Gill’s leadership has shone through. His epic knocks have single-handedly put India in a winning position after a close defeat in the first Test. This has secured his standing as the leader within the dressing room.
His performances have also earned him the respect of rivals and new fans abroad, showcasing both the gravitas of Test match batting and the flair of T20 cricket.
A New Era of Batting
Shubman’s batting style offers something for every cricket enthusiast. He possesses the range of strokes to keep Test purists, casual viewers, and those who love boundaries glued to their screens.
His ability to seamlessly switch between the defensive solidity of Test cricket and the explosive hitting of T20s makes him a captivating player to watch. One moment he’s executing a classic cover drive, the next he’s kneeling to smash a spinner for six.
Strategic Decisions and Golden Touch
As captain, Gill has demonstrated a shrewd cricketing mind. He’s been empowered by Coach Gautam Gambhir and the selection committee to make tough calls.
Despite calls for Kuldeep Yadav, Gill opted for all-rounder Washington Sundar in the second Test, a decision that appears to have paid off. It seems everything Shubman touches these days turns to gold.
Finding His Flow
This purple patch comes after Gill became captain, marking a significant leap in his Test career. Before this series, his highest Test score was 128, a stark contrast to his recent scores of 147, 269, and 161.
Gill revealed that he had been trying too hard previously. For this series, he decided to “go back to his basics” and bat like he did in his childhood. This return to an unburdened approach has unlocked his true potential.
- Shubman Gill made history with a double hundred and a 150+ score in the same Test, surpassing long-standing records.
- He received high praise from Virat Kohli, who called him “star boy,” and from former England captain Nasser Hussain.
- His captaincy has been instrumental, with his impactful knocks securing his leadership and earning global respect.
- Gill’s current form stems from a decision to return to his “childhood” batting basics, playing with more freedom.
By rekindling his love for batting, Shubman Gill has not only become the present but also the undeniable future of Indian cricket, captivating audiences with every stroke.
