India’s decision to enforce the follow-on against the West Indies on a slow Kotla pitch sparked mixed reactions from fans and experts alike. After dismissing the visitors for 248 in just 81.5 overs on Day 3, captain Shubman Gill made the bold call to make them bat again — a move that initially seemed to backfire. The West Indies, who had struggled throughout the series, produced their best batting display of the tour, avoiding an innings defeat and forcing India to chase in the final innings.

The risk, of course, lay in the pitch deteriorating and making batting more challenging later on. However, despite resilient centuries from John Campbell and Shai Hope, the visitors could only manage a lead of 120 runs, as the pitch remained slow but stable through Day 4.

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Shubman Gill later explained his rationale behind the decision. “We were about 300 runs ahead and the wicket was quite flat, so we thought if we batted again and scored 500, taking six or seven wickets on Day 5 could still be tough. That was the thought process,” he said.

The young Indian skipper defended his bold choice, saying leadership requires a balance of instinct and calculated risk. “I always try to make the most logical decision based on the match situation. Sometimes, you need to take bold calls — that’s what adds the X factor,” Shubman Gill added.

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Shubman Gill also opened up about settling into his role as India’s Test captain, admitting he relishes the responsibility that comes with it. “I’m kind of getting used to managing this group. I enjoy responsibility — being involved in key decisions brings out the best in me,” he said with a smile.

With back-to-back series wins under his leadership, Gill’s proactive captaincy is already defining India’s new era in Test cricket.