Gill’s Fitness in Focus as India Hopes for Perth Test Boost.
As the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia approaches, the Indian team management is keeping a close eye on the fitness of key batsman Shubman Gill. With the first Test set to commence in Perth on Friday, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has revealed that there is a slim chance of Gill featuring in the opening match.
Gill, who has been in impressive form this season, sustained a fracture to his left thumb while fielding in the match simulations during the team’s preparation in Australia.
The injury has kept the young batsman out of the practice sessions, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial Test series opener.
Addressing the media, Morkel expressed cautious optimism about Gill’s recovery. “Shubman 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 during the build-up, so fingers crossed,” the bowling coach said.
Gill’s impressive performances in the domestic circuit this season have made him a crucial part of India’s batting lineup. The 23-year-old has amassed 806 runs in 10 matches, averaging over 47, with three centuries and five half-centuries to his name.
With Rohit Sharma‘s absence for the first Test due to personal reasons, the Indian team management is already facing a selection dilemma. If Gill is unable to recover in time, the team may turn to Devudutt Padikkal as a replacement, with the young left-hander potentially stepping in to bat at number three.
Morkel also provided an update on the fitness of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who has recently returned to action after a year-long injury layoff. The bowling coach expressed optimism about Shami’s readiness, stating, “We are keeping a close eye on Shami.
The Indian pace attack, featuring the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, will undoubtedly benefit from Shami’s experience and expertise, especially with the team’s relatively inexperienced bowling lineup.
