Following India’s hard-fought victory over England, Shubman Gill shared a motivating message he received from head coach Rahul Dravid. Despite a shaky start in the fourth Test, India managed to secure a series win, thanks in part to Gill’s resilient innings. Resuming the chase at 40/0, India encountered a collapse, slipping to 120/5, including the loss of captain Rohit Sharma.
However, Gill’s unbeaten 52, along with Dhruv Jurel’s 39 not out, stabilized the innings with a crucial 72-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Their efforts successfully chased down the target of 192, securing India’s series victory with an unassailable 3-1 lead.
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Gill took to Instagram to reveal Dravid’s words of encouragement: “If not you, then who? If not now, then when?” This quote encapsulates Dravid’s inspirational approach to motivating players.
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The fourth Test in Ranchi saw India facing a tricky chase of 192 after a precarious start, slipping from 84/0 to 120/5. Captain Rohit Sharma’s departure for 55 added to the pressure. However, Shubman Gill, alongside Dhruv Jurel (39 not out), stitched a crucial unbroken 72-run partnership for the sixth wicket, securing the series with an unassailable 3-1 lead.
Reflecting on his approach during the game, Shubman Gill disclosed his strategy to nullify LBW dismissals, especially with the odd ball keeping low and turning sharply. He emphasized stepping down the wicket against off-spinners and executing the plan with calmness.
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In a post-match interview, Shubman Gill emphasized the need to keep the cracks out of the game on such wickets, acknowledging that if the ball hit the cracks, there wasn’t much one could do about it. The victory not only showcased Gill’s composure but also highlighted the significance of Dravid’s motivational words in steering the team towards success. With the series sealed, India now looks ahead to the final Test in Dharamshala, starting on March 7, having overcome the setback of losing the opening Test in Hyderabad.
