India’s Test captain Shubman Gill has set the tone for the upcoming series against the West Indies by hinting at a shift in approach towards home conditions. Speaking at a press conference on the eve of the first Test, Gill stressed that India would prefer pitches that offer something to both batters and bowlers, moving slightly away from the long-standing reliance on rank turners. His comments suggest that balance could define India’s strategy in this series, with the possibility of fielding an extra seamer also on the cards.
Gill, who recently led India to a triumphant Asia Cup campaign, admitted that the wicket for the opening Test carries a greenish tinge. “We would be looking to play on wickets that offer assistance to both batsmen and bowlers,” Shubman Gill said. “But at the same time, every team knows when they come to India, the challenge will always be spin and reverse swing. Keeping that in mind, we’re tempted to include a third seamer, though the final decision will be taken on match day.”
While India has dominated most Test matches at home in recent years, Shubman Gill underlined the importance of resilience. “We’re not looking for shortcuts. People can expect us to play hard, grinding cricket. Over the past few years, not many Tests in India have gone the full five days. But our aim is to play tough cricket across conditions, with the skill set this team possesses.”
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The young skipper also admitted that transitioning from T20 cricket to the longest format isn’t easy, particularly after the Asia Cup final in Dubai just days ago.
“Switching formats is more about the mental aspect than technique. When you move from T20s to Tests, it’s always the toughest adjustment. I’ve just tried to get into my zone, watch the ball closely, and decide the areas I’ll defend and attack,” he explained.
Shubman Gill, who amassed 754 runs in five Tests against England earlier this year, has already shown maturity as a red-ball batter. He emphasised patience and discipline as the key to thriving in the format.
“It’s about control and sticking to your process. That’s what Test cricket demands.” The focus will also be on India’s bowling attack, particularly Jasprit Bumrah. When asked if workload management would impact the pace spearhead’s availability, Gill maintained a flexible stance. “We’ll take it match by match. Nothing is pre-decided. It depends on how long a Test runs and how many overs our fast bowlers deliver. After assessing their bodies post-match, we’ll make a call.”
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One certainty, however, is Ravindra Jadeja’s role at No. 6. Shubman Gill praised the veteran all-rounder’s consistency and match-winning ability. “Jaddu bhai has been outstanding with the bat and ball. Over the last two years, he has bailed us out from tricky situations several times. His consistency, coupled with the experience he brings, makes him a vital cog in our Test setup.”
As India prepares for yet another home series, Gill’s balanced and thoughtful approach reflects the confidence of a young leader keen to evolve. For the fans, his promise of “hard, grinding cricket” is a reassurance that India’s Test side remains committed to excellence, no matter the format or opposition.
