The Indian cricket team may receive a significant boost ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth as bowling coach Morne Morkel hinted that Shubman Gill could still feature in the playing XI. Initially, it was reported that Gill would miss the match due to a thumb injury, but the latest update suggests otherwise.
Morkel, addressing a press conference, revealed that Gill’s condition has improved considerably. “He is improving on a day-by-day basis. We will take a call on the morning of the Test. He played well in the match simulation in the build-up. So, fingers crossed,” said Morkel.
Gill, who was instrumental during India’s historic 2-1 series win in Australia in 2020-21, scored 259 runs in three matches at an average of 51, including two half-centuries. His presence would be critical for India, especially with other key players like Rohit Sharma and Mohammed Shami unavailable for the first Test.
Opening dilemma for Team India
With Rohit Sharma ruled out, KL Rahul is likely to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. If Gill does not make it to the XI, Devdutt Padikkal is expected to slot in at No. 3, followed by Virat Kohli at No. 4. This reshuffling highlights the challenges facing the Indian batting lineup in the absence of experienced players.
India’s squad for the Australia Test series
- Batsmen: Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Devdutt Padikkal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Sarfaraz Khan
- Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant, Dhruv Jurel
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar
- Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Ravichandran Ashwin, Nitish Kumar Reddy
India’s chances in the first Test could hinge significantly on Gill’s fitness. The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins on November 22, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see if Gill can take the field in Perth.