India’s 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 has sparked intense discussions about the team’s performance and future. This loss, coupled with the 0-3 clean sweep against New Zealand at home last year, highlights growing concerns within Indian cricket. It signals the need for introspection and possibly some tough decisions to stay competitive on the global stage.
While senior players often shoulder the blame after such losses, scrutiny has also turned to the younger crop of players who are being groomed as future stars. Among them, Shubman Gill faced significant expectations, especially in Australia, a country where he made a memorable Test debut in 2020. Fans and experts hoped this series would mark his ascent as a central figure in India’s batting lineup. However, Gill’s performance was underwhelming.
Across three Tests, he managed only 93 runs in five innings at an average of 18.60, numbers that fall far short of his potential. Former India cricketer Subramaniam Badrinath did not hold back in his assessment of Gill’s struggles, raising concerns about favouritism in Indian cricket.
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Speaking on Star Sports Tamil, Subramaniam Badrinath remarked, “If Shubman Gill had a name like Subramaniam, he might have been dropped by now. It’s tough to watch him fail repeatedly without meeting expectations.” Badrinath’s criticism wasn’t limited to Gill’s lack of runs but extended to his intent and approach at the crease. “Getting out is part of cricket, but there has to be intent and attitude,” Badrinath stated.
He emphasized the importance of playing to tire out bowlers, making the ball old, and supporting teammates, even if runs are hard to come by. He contrasted Gill’s performance with the likes of Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan McSweeney, who consistently ground down Indian bowlers, contributing to their eventual fatigue and injuries, including Jasprit Bumrah’s.
Subramaniam Badrinath also pointed out deficiencies in Gill’s fielding, stating, “He doesn’t stand out in any fielding position—be it slips, point, or silly point. So, what does he bring to the team?” His comments underline the growing dissatisfaction with Gill’s overall contributions during the series.
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For Gill, this critique serves as a wake-up call. While his talent is undeniable, the young batter must translate potential into consistent performance to cement his place in the team. India, meanwhile, faces the challenge of recalibrating its approach as it prepares for future assignments.
