India’s U19 cricket team got a front-row seat to history as they watched Shubman Gill smash a magnificent 269 against England at Edgbaston, a visit made possible by none other than NCA head VVS Laxman.
Gill’s Masterclass Unfolds
Day two of the second Test between India and England at Edgbaston became a spectacle thanks to Shubman Gill. The young Indian opener delivered a stunning performance, scoring 269 runs off 387 balls.
His monumental innings was crucial in helping India post a commanding total of 587. By the close of play on Day 2, India had also managed to pick up three key English wickets, putting them firmly in control.
Laxman Arranges a Special Experience
The India U19 team, currently on tour in England for a series of Youth ODIs and Tests, were fortunate spectators. Their coach, Hrishikesh Kanitkar, revealed the thoughtful gesture behind their presence at the Test match.
According to Kanitkar, it was the legendary VVS Laxman, who heads the National Cricket Academy (NCA), who orchestrated the visit. Laxman believed it would be an invaluable learning experience for the young cricketers.
“VVS Laxman was instrumental in arranging this. He was the one who actually said that it would be a good thing to go and watch this game. It’s definitely a special occasion for any upcoming cricketer to be at a Test venue,” Kanitkar shared in a video posted by the BCCI.
Invaluable Lessons for Young Talent
Witnessing a Test double century firsthand offers an unparalleled educational opportunity. The U19 players observed Gill’s patience, technique, and temperament over a lengthy innings, demonstrating what it takes to excel at the highest level.
Gill formed significant partnerships, including a 203-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja (89 off 137 balls) and a 144-run partnership with Washington Sundar (42 off 103 balls). These collaborations highlighted the importance of building innings and controlling the game’s tempo.
Gill’s Record-Breaking Achievement
Shubman Gill’s incredible knock was not just a treat for the eyes; it also rewrote several record books. He became only the 26th Indian cricketer to score a Test double hundred, a testament to his talent and dedication.
More notably, Gill’s 269 marked him as the first Asian captain to achieve a double century in a Test match played in England. He surpassed the legendary Sunil Gavaskar’s 221, making it the highest individual score by an Indian batsman in England.
Furthermore, this innings also stands as the highest-ever Test score by an Indian captain, eclipsing Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 254 from 2019. It was truly a day of records and inspiration.
- Shubman Gill scored 269 runs, leading India to a massive total of 587.
- VVS Laxman arranged for the India U19 team to witness Gill’s historic innings.
- Gill’s knock broke multiple records, including the highest score by an Indian captain and an Indian batsman in England.
The experience offered the young U19 cricketers an unforgettable glimpse into top-tier Test cricket, potentially inspiring their own future performances on the international stage.
