Shubman Gill makes a big call about India’s team balance. The new captain wants four proper bowlers in every Test. He thinks taking 20 wickets matters more than having extra batsmen.

Gill knows this plan means less batting strength for India. His team will have only six batsmen instead of seven. But the captain believes bowling wins Test matches more often.
This approach differs from what India did in Australia recently. They played three all-rounders there for more batting options. Gill wants a different strategy for winning Tests consistently.
Learning From Past Wins
Gill remembers how India beat England at home in 2024. The team used five bowlers in helpful conditions back then. That bowling attack took wickets regularly and won the series.
Also Read: IND vs ENG 2025: Ben Stokes Prioritizes Winning While Playing Exciting Cricket
The captain wants to copy that successful formula again. He believes strong bowling gives teams more chances to win. Taking all 20 wickets becomes easier with four specialist bowlers.
Seeks to replicate the confidence and structure instilled by previous regimes under Kohli–Shastri and Rohit–Dravid.
Gill Moves to Number Four
Shubman Gill will bat at number four for India now. Virat Kohli used to bat there before his retirement. Gill discussed this move with coach Gautam Gambhir already.
The captain wants to focus only on batting when playing. He plans to become the series’ top run-scorer this time. Gill won’t let captaincy duties affect his batting performance.
Also Read: BBL 2025-26: Shaheen, Rauf Chosen First; Archer Overlooked
Gill also wants his players to feel secure about their spots. Each player should know their exact role in the team. This clarity helps everyone perform better under pressure situations.
Big Challenge for Young Batsmen
Playing with fewer specialist batsmen creates more pressure on everyone. The top six batsmen must score most of the runs. Many players haven’t batted at numbers four and five much.
Gill welcomes this tough challenge for his team’s development. He thinks young players will grow stronger facing difficulties. The captain wants to prove himself as both a leader and a batsman.
This bold strategy could help India take wickets faster. Gill believes four bowlers give better chances of winning Tests.