Team India is gearing up for a challenging assignment, set to begin with a three-match Test series against New Zealand. Following this, they will embark on a much-anticipated tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar series, kicking off on November 22 in Perth. As the team prepares for this significant contest, discussions about the optimal lineup have intensified, particularly regarding the crucial number three batting position.
Former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel recently shared his insights, emphasizing the importance of a strong number three batter for India’s success in Australia. He highlighted the pivotal roles played by players like Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara in previous series victories down under, suggesting that the performance of the number three batsman is often a key determinant in India’s fortunes.
“Whenever India has excelled in Australia, the contributions of the number three batter have been vital. The way Rahul Dravid batted in 2003-04 and Cheteshwar Pujara’s impact in the last two series we won there underscores the importance of this position,” Parthiv Patel remarked during an interview with Colors Cineplex.
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Parthiv Patel believes that Shubman Gill could be instrumental in the upcoming series, given his demonstrated ability to score runs in challenging conditions, despite having batted primarily as an opener.
He pointed out that during India’s memorable victory at The Gabba, while Rishabh Pant’s innings of 89 is often celebrated, Gill’s crucial knock of 91 runs also played a significant role. “He knows how to perform under pressure,” Patel noted, reinforcing Gill’s capability.
Moreover, Patel acknowledged that with this being Gill’s second tour to Australia, he must embrace the expectations that come with it, stepping into a more senior role within the squad.
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“His recent approach and mindset reflect that he is aware of his responsibilities. As he bats at No. 3, he will be expected to anchor the innings and score significant runs,” Patel explained, reiterating the importance of the number three and number four positions as the backbone of the batting lineup. With this added pressure, fans will be eager to see how Gill rises to the occasion in one of cricket’s most formidable arenas.
