Shubman Gill Returns To Net Practice In Canberra Ahead Of Adelaide Test

November 29, 2024: In an encouraging development for the Indian cricket team, Shubman Gill was seen fine-tuning his batting technique in the nets at Canberra, as he prepares for the upcoming pink-ball, day-night Test against Australia at Adelaide Oval.

India is currently in Canberra, where they will face the Prime Minister’s XI in a two-day warm-up match at Manuka Oval. The game, which will also feature the pink ball, is crucial for the players to get accustomed to the unique challenges it presents before the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Adelaide.

India comes into this match with a 1-0 lead in the series, following their comprehensive 295-run victory at Perth. While this provides them with a significant mental advantage, the memories of the 2021 Adelaide pink-ball Test, where India was bowled out for a shocking 36 runs, remain fresh in the minds of both players and fans. This defeat serves as a reminder that Australia can stage a strong fightback, and India will need to be at their best.

For Shubman Gill, the Adelaide Test represents an important opportunity to continue the excellent form he showcased during the 2020-21 series. Having missed the first Test due to a thumb injury, Gill has been working on strengthening his defense in the nets. His solid technique and composure suggest that he could be a key figure in India’s batting lineup, especially given his stellar performances in recent years.

Gill’s memorable 91 at The Gabba in 2021 helped India chase down 328 runs on the final day to win the series, ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. That innings was a defining moment in his career, and since then, he has emerged as one of India’s most promising young talents. In the current season, Gill has been in excellent form, amassing 806 runs in 10 matches at an average of over 47, with three centuries and as many fifties. His recent consistency has only reinforced his position as one of India’s key batters, especially in the number three position.

In other news, Rohit Sharma, who had missed the first part of the tour due to the birth of his second child, is expected to play in the warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI from November 30. His inclusion is a boost for India, as they prepare for the high-stakes Test match in Adelaide.

On the coaching front, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir will miss the warm-up game in Canberra as he returns to India for personal reasons. However, Gambhir is expected to rejoin the team ahead of the Adelaide Test, providing crucial leadership and guidance as India looks to maintain their advantage in the series.

With preparations intensifying, all eyes will be on the warm-up match and the team’s final build-up to the second Test, as they aim to put the ghost of 2021 behind them and take a step closer to securing a historic series win in Australia.