AHMEDABAD– India’s Test captain Shubman Gill believes the biggest challenge in moving between white-ball and red-ball cricket lies in the mind rather than technique, as he prepares to lead his team into a two-match series against the West Indies beginning Thursday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Gill reflected on the quick transition from the recently concluded Asia Cup to the upcoming Test assignment.
“We had a couple of days of practice before the Test match, so it was a quick turnaround,” Gill said. “I was just looking to work on defense and get in the zone. Switching formats is more mental than technique.”
Gill emphasized that his side is focused on playing hard, grinding cricket, even as many recent Tests worldwide have failed to last the full five days. “Over the past few years, if you see the Test matches, they haven’t got to five days. What we are looking to do is play some good, hard cricket. In England, most of our Tests went deep. What you can expect from us is good, hard, grinding cricket. We won’t be looking for any easy options.”
The 25-year-old also expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and dominate regardless of the situation. “I think we have the skills to dominate in any kind of situation. With the kind of talent we have, we can turn things around from any position,” he added.
On team selection for the opening Test, Gill revealed that the management is considering a third fast bowler, depending on the surface conditions. “Given the weather and conditions, we’ll be tempted to have a third seaming option. But once we check the wicket tomorrow and see how much moisture is there, we’ll take a call.”
Gill also noted that while India’s pitches traditionally test visiting sides with spin and reverse swing, he wants balanced wickets that offer something to both batters and bowlers. “Any team that comes to India faces the challenge of spin and reverse swing. If they can handle those, they’ll have success. We’ll be looking to play on wickets that offer [something] to both batsmen and bowlers,” he said.
India will take the field on Thursday under Gill’s captaincy with hopes of continuing their strong home record, while the West Indies aim to prove themselves in a format where they once ruled the world stage. (Source: IANS)
