As the gripping Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy reaches its climax at The Oval, all eyes are now on Shubman Gill. With the five-match Test series delicately poised and India aiming to level it 2-2, former Indian pacer Varun Aaron believes Gill’s bat will hold the key to India’s fate on Day 3. Having led from the front throughout the series, Gill now faces his biggest test—not just as captain, but as India’s most reliable run-scorer.

Speaking to JioHotstar after Day 2, Aaron reflected on Gill’s unfortunate run-out for 21 in the first innings and suggested the young skipper would approach the second dig with greater caution.

“I don’t think Gill will be taking any risky singles — that’s for sure,” Varun Aaron said with a smile. “But more importantly, he’ll stick to the template that’s worked for him. He’s in sublime form. He’s broken records and is on the verge of surpassing even Sunil Gavaskar’s tally in a single series. If he gets going tomorrow, India could stretch the lead beyond 300 — and that might just break England’s back.”

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India ended Day 2 at 75/2, holding a modest 52-run lead. While the first innings collapse for 224 had left them vulnerable, Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj’s fiery spells — both bagging four wickets — brought India roaring back. England’s promising 92-run opening stand fizzled as they folded for 247, giving the visitors a valuable opening.

The second innings saw Yashasvi Jaiswal blitz a 49-ball fifty, taking the attack to the English bowlers in the fading light. But the dismissals of KL Rahul and debutant Sai Sudharsan meant the balance was still delicate. As stumps were drawn, Akash Deep joined Jaiswal in the middle as a nightwatchman.

Now, with variable bounce creeping into the Oval pitch and overcast skies predicted, Gill will face a stern test. But Aaron is optimistic. “The pitch will challenge him, but if Gill digs in, he can shift the momentum dramatically. A 300-plus lead is within reach if he plays a captain’s knock.”

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So far in the series, India’s batting has lacked consistency. Apart from Karun Nair’s resilient 57 in the first innings, there have been few bright spots. Day 3, therefore, represents not just a fresh start but a defining moment — and for India, that moment will begin with Shubman Gill. If he rises, India’s hopes will, too.