India’s Shubman Gill practiced in the nets in Canberra on Friday (November 29), a promising sign before the day-night Test match against Australia at the Adelaide Oval.
The Indian team is currently in Canberra for a two-day pink-ball warm-up game against the Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval. This match will allow Indian players to acclimate to the pink ball and its unique challenges.
India to wait on Shubman Gill until the morning of Perth Test: Morne Morkel
India secured a commanding victory in the first Test at Perth, winning by 295 runs and taking a 1-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This win provided a significant psychological advantage over Australia.
However, the memory of the 2021 Adelaide pink-ball Test, where India were bowled out for a mere 36 runs, serves as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead. A strong Australian comeback is always a possibility.
Gill focused on refining his defensive technique in the nets. His handling of the bat and the solidity of his defence were encouraging signs after he missed the first Test due to a thumb injury.
Fans are eager to see Gill play in the Adelaide Test and replicate his performance from the Gabba in 2021. In that match, he scored a magnificent 91, helping India chase down 328 runs on the final day. The victory gave India the series win and handed Australia their first loss at the Gabba in over 32 years.
The 2020-21 series was a pivotal moment in Gill’s career. He amassed 259 runs in three Tests at an average of 51.80, including two fifties, solidifying his position as one of India’s top young batsmen.
Gill has been in excellent form this season, accumulating 806 runs in 10 matches and 19 innings, at an average exceeding 47. He has three centuries and three fifties to his name, with a highest score of 119.
Batting at number three, his designated position for this series, Gill has scored 926 runs in 14 matches at an average of 42.09. He has achieved this in 25 innings, scoring three centuries and three fifties.
Rohit Sharma expected to feature in practice game
Where will KL Rahul bat when Rohit Sharma returns to Playing XI for Adelaide Test
As per reports, Rohit Sharma will be available for the two-day warm-up game against the Prime Minister’s XI.
India captain Rohit had immediately hit the nets after landing in Perth on Sunday. He had missed the opening Test for the birth of his second child.
Elsewhere, Gautam Gambhir, the Indian head coach, returned home for personal reasons and will miss the two-day tour game.
Gambhir is expected to fly back on December 3 and re-join with the rest of the team and staff before the second Test on December 6.
