Focus Shifts to Shubman Gill as India Aims to Level Series Against England
Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes that all eyes will be on skipper Shubman Gill in the crucial fifth Test against England at The Oval. With India looking to even the series at 2-2, Aaron feels Gill needs to step up with the bat on Day 3.
In a chat with JioHotstar, Aaron pointed out that Gill’s performance is vital after he was dismissed for a mere 21 runs in the first innings due to a run-out. The ex-pacer expects Gill to steer clear of risky singles and adopt a more careful approach in the second innings. With 743 runs under his belt in the series, which is the most by any batter, Aaron believes Gill’s skill and mindset could be the key in this closely contested match.
“I don’t think Gill will be taking any risky singles—that’s for sure. I hope he continues to play like he has in this series. He has already set several records and could even surpass Sunil Gavaskar’s run tally. If he makes a big score tomorrow, India could push for a lead of over 300, which would really change the game. How he plays will be crucial, and he knows his central role in India’s strategy,” Aaron stated.
India wrapped up Day 2 with a slender yet important lead of 52 runs, finishing with 75/2 after being bowled out for 224 earlier in the match. The bowlers, especially Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj, who both took four wickets, helped bring India back into the game after England initially had a strong start with a 92-run opening partnership. They collapsed to just 247 runs afterward.
In the second innings, Yashasvi Jaiswal played a crucial role by scoring a quick half-century off just 49 balls. However, India also lost KL Rahul and debutant Sai Sudharsan, leaving nightwatchman Akash Deep to join Jaiswal as play ended for the day.
The pressure is now on Gill. With the pitch showing uneven bounce and conditions likely favoring seam bowlers, his innings is expected to be a backbone for India’s pursuit of a substantial lead. Aaron emphasized that if Gill can perform exceptionally again, a lead of over 300 is within reach—this would significantly enhance India’s chances of winning.
So far, India’s batting has been uneven throughout the series, with few notable performances. Karun Nair’s fighting 57 in the first innings stood out as a key contribution before the bowlers took control. With Day 3 on the horizon, all attention turns to Shubman Gill—the player Aaron believes can transform opportunities into victory amidst pressure.
