New Delhi: India’s youngster Shubman Gill proved his worth on debut in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The fearless approach and unbeaten batting skills of the young opener impressed everyone.
Back home after helping the team to a 2-1 series win against Australia, the Punjab batsman told TOI, “I am relaxed now. Making my debut for India is a big relief. I was a bit nervous, but with every innings I grew in confidence”.
Gill missed his maiden century in the Gabba Test by nine runs but his innings impressed many cricket critics. Asked about his view on missing out on a hundred, he said, “A century could have been the cherry on the cake. I was well set and I should have scored the century, but at the same time, I am happy that I have contributed to the team’s victory. This series was a big learning curve for me and I have become a better cricketer.”
Gill also acknowledged Yuvraj Singh’s contribution to his success in Australia Tests.
He also revealed a camp with former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh was helpful in preparing for the short-pitched deliveries in Australia. The youngster responded brilliantly to the short-pitched barrage from the Australian fast bowlers in the Brisbane innings.
“The camp with Yuvi paaji before the IPL was very useful. During that camp, he prepared me to face chin music (bouncers). He used to throw hundreds of short-pitch balls to me from different angles, and I think it helped me a lot,” said Gill.
Asked about the upcoming series against England, the 21-year-old opener said, “The next goal is to score consistently at this level. England series will be crucial for me because now I will not be an unknown entity. Facing the likes of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Jofra Archer will be challenging, but I am up for it.”
