Shubman Gill‘s half-century in the day-night practice match against Australia PM XI at Canberra is a positive sign for India before the day-night second Test. The pink-ball Test in Adelaide begins on December 6th.
Gill retired after reaching his fifty, having faced over ten overs. He appeared comfortable against the pink ball under lights, hitting seven boundaries.
Gill’s return to the nets on Friday indicated recovery from a thumb injury. This injury had sidelined him for the opening match in Perth. India hopes for a fully fit Gill for the crucial number three batting position. This spot is especially important during a five-Test series in Australia.
Gill’s solid defense provides stability to the innings. He can also shift gears and attack when necessary.
The 25-year-old had a successful previous tour of Australia in 2020-21. He amassed 259 runs in three Tests at an average of 51.80. This included a vital 91 in the memorable fourth Test victory at the Gabba.
Gill’s record at number three boasts 926 runs, with three centuries at an average exceeding 47. He’s also an accomplished opener, having scored 874 runs in 29 innings.
Throughout his 27 Test matches, Gill has batted exclusively as an opener or at one-down.
Rain washed out the first day of the two-day pink-ball tour match. The match was reduced to 46 overs per side, with India opting to field first.
India’s Harshit Rana took four wickets for 44 runs. India bowled out the Australian Prime Minister’s XI for 240 in 43.2 overs during the pink-ball warm-up game at Manuka Oval. This occurred on Sunday.
India’s focus will be on carrying the momentum from the practice match into the crucial second Test. A strong performance in Adelaide is vital for their success in the five-match series. The team will be aiming to replicate their historic series win from the 2020-21 tour.