Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed his concern over Shubman Gill’s recent injury, describing it as a “jolt” for the Indian cricket team ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. Gill, who has been in excellent form, suffered a left thumb fracture while fielding in an intra-squad simulation game between the senior team and India A, ruling him out of the first Test.
SOURCE : ZEE
Ganguly, speaking to PTI, acknowledged Gill’s significant contribution to the team, especially his impressive performances in Australia during the previous tour. “Shubman’s injury is a jolt for the team no doubt as he is an in-form batter and has scored in Australia. A thumb fracture could rule him out for two Tests. But I believe the other batters would step up in absence of Rohit (on paternity leave) and Shubman during the first Test. I don’t think New Zealand defeat would have any bearing on this series,” Ganguly said.
Source:- bbc news
The former BCCI president also emphasized the need for India to adapt to the conditions in Australia, suggesting that playing two specialist spinners at Perth or Brisbane would not be effective. “Look, there is absolutely no point in playing two specialist spinners either at Perth (Optus) or at the Gabba (Brisbane). You obviously need to find a way to play Reddy in these conditions. He is a good batsman and coming in at lower middle order, it will lend proper balance to the side,” Ganguly added.
Ganguly further commented on the inclusion of Nitish Kumar Reddy, a promising young player, in the squad. “While Reddy is still very raw, one of India’s finest captains feels that the Andhra cricketer needs to be given chances in specific conditions. He is a good batsman and coming in at lower middle order, it will lend proper balance to the side,” he said.
The former captain also expressed his confidence in the team’s ability to overcome the recent shock loss to New Zealand and perform well in the upcoming series. “Transitions will happen when it has to happen. I think any player shouldn’t be judged on basis of age. Form and fitness should be the only two criteria to judge a player.”
Ganguly highlighted the importance of having a balanced team and the need for Mohammed Shami to be included in the squad for the second Test starting December 6. “Shami bowled nearly 45 overs, fielded for more than 100 overs and also scored some runs. That’s a good enough fitness test to be sent to Australia because you need a bowler of his calibre alongside Jasprit Bumrah.”
In conclusion, Ganguly remains optimistic about India’s chances in the Border Gavaskar Trophy, believing that the team has the quality and mental fortitude to overcome the challenges ahead. “I have full confidence in Virat Kohli. He has been a proven performer and he will have a very good series. Kohli and second best Test batter in the current line-up Rishabh will be key. If these two can perform, India will have a good series,” he said.
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