Shubman Gill Opens up about his Batting Position

During the transition period of the Indian cricket team, Shubman Gill was asked by the head coach about his preferred batting position. This happened as Yashasvi Jaiswal made his debut in the first Test against West Indies in Dominica on July 12, 2023.

Gill’s Role Change in the Team

Previously, Shubman Gill had only played as an opener in all three formats for India. However, with Cheteshwar Pujara being dropped from the squad for the West Indies series, either Gill or Jaiswal was expected to take the no.3 spot.

Surprising Announcement by Captain Rohit Sharma

On the eve of the first Test, captain Rohit Sharma revealed that Gill would open the batting with him, while he would take over from Pujara at the no.3 spot.

Gill’s Preferred Batting Position

Gill stated, “They asked me where I wanted to bat, and I said I wanted No. 3. It is a position where I want to consolidate. It is always good to play with a new ball. I have the experience with the new ball, and when you’re batting at No. 3, it is not very different although it is a little bit of a difference,” Gill told host broadcasters.

Feeling Like a Senior Player

Gill also mentioned that despite the change in roles, he doesn’t feel like a senior player with new faces coming into the side.

Gill’s Impressive Performance in IPL 2023

Gill had an excellent IPL 2023 season where he won the IPL Orange Cap by scoring 890 runs in 17 matches, including three centuries.

Enjoying the Break

After the WTC 2023 Final, Gill expressed that he enjoyed the one-month break and spent time with his family.

West Indies’ Decision to Bat First

Meanwhile, West Indies won the toss and chose to bat first in Dominica. Alick Athanaze made his debut for the team, while Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan made their Test debuts for India as well.

(PTI inputs)