WI vs IND, 2nd Test: Shubman Gill struggling to control his tempo at No.3, says Abhinav Mukund

Mukund has expressed concerns about Gill’s ability to control his tempo at the number three position.

Gill’s first game at number three didn’t start well as he was out for six in India’s only innings during the first Test against the West Indies, which India won by an innings and 141 runs. Despite this failure, batting coach Vikram Rathour urged critics not to judge Gill based on one failure. Rathour said that Gill possesses the technique and temperament to play time if required and can also play an attacking game when needed.

“It’s a massive challenge, not only the position. I think Shubman Gill played at No. 3 for his first-class side. But coming off a white-ball season, as a batter, you are trying to control your bat speed. In a T20 format or ODI format, you are going hard at the ball,” Abhinav Mukund said on JioCinema on Day 1 of the WI vs IND Test.

Come to the second Test, Gill walked onto the pitch with the hope of making amends for his previous performances. Unfortunately, his time at the crease was short-lived. He fell for a paltry score of 10, nicking behind Kemar Roach’s delivery. Wicket-keeper Joshua Da Silva made no mistake in taking the catch, marking another disappointing outing for Gill. He then had a word with his skipper and batting partner Rohit before deciding to walk off without chancing a review. This marked his second consecutive low score in the series, raising questions about his form and technique.

“The converse is easier to do. To control the bat speed. I would think Shubman Gill is going after things that he doesn’t want to go. That will be the challenge. Shubman Gill is sort of struggling a little bit in controlling his tempo. Unfortunately, he is going forward a bit too much for my liking,” Mukund added.

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