Cheteshwar Pujara has raised concerns about Shubman Gill’s technique and shot selection ahead of the Melbourne Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
India’s No. 3 batter in this series, Gill has managed only 60 runs across three innings, drawing criticism from Pujara, who spoke to ESPNcricinfo.
“His technique needs work—he has hard hands,” Pujara noted. “He also needs to improve his footwork. Most of the time in this series, we’ve seen him waiting for short deliveries instead of moving towards the ball.”
Gill’s struggles outside Asia continue, with only 267 runs across 16 innings in Australia, England, South Africa, and the West Indies, averaging a mere 17.80. Since his memorable 91 at the Gabba four years ago, his highest score outside Asia has been 36.
“He has played some beautiful shots, but he needs to be more selective,” Pujara added. “For instance, he got out driving balls outside off stump. He needs to learn to leave such deliveries and be more patient.
“While his aggressive game is his strength, at the top of the order, sometimes you need to focus on the ball and play it on merit, rather than approaching every delivery with an overly positive mindset to play shots.”
Pujara emphasized the importance of balance in Gill’s approach.
“He can’t curb his natural game too much, but he needs to be smart. When the ball is doing a bit, it’s about finding ways to weather the conditions and those challenging spells.
“If he can survive those moments, once set, he has the potential to score big runs.”
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Shastri highlighted the significance of No.6 as a counter-attacking position and urged Rohit to embrace that role.
“The best No.6 batters know how to counter-attack effectively. While they adapt to situations, their intent to dominate should come sooner rather than later, especially with Rohit’s skill set for Australian conditions,” Shastri concluded.ve them in Melbourne cheering for me.”
The series is currently tied 1-1, following a draw in the third Test in Brisbane. The Boxing Day Test begins on December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. t’s Next?
Robin Uthappa’s statement reflects his commitment to clearing his name. As the case unfolds, the former cricketer’s legal team is expected to continue providing evidence to demonstrate his lack of involvement in the alleged PF fraud.
