India’s new Test captain, Shubman Gill, has spoken openly about excluding Mohammed Shami from the team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa.
The decision wasn’t easy, but the team management has given the young fast bowler a chance. Gill heaped praise on Shami at the press conference before the first Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Trust in young bowlers in Shami’s absence
Shami recently bowled brilliantly for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, but the selectors ignored him for the two-Test series.
This has sparked considerable debate among fans and former cricketers. Gill said that it is difficult to leave out a player like Shami.
He stated bluntly, “Not many bowlers are of his quality. But the ones playing have done a terrific job. Sometimes it’s difficult for players like Shami bhai to miss out. The selectors will be able to give you a better answer to that.”
The 26-year-old captain also praised the team’s current bowlers. He said that these young boys are doing amazingly well. Shami’s absence will be felt, but this is the right step for team balance. Gill also explained that only the selectors can explain the reasoning.
Challenges of becoming a captain and the workload burden
Gill now has the responsibility of captaining both Test and ODI formats, as well as vice-captain in T20Is. Playing consecutive matches and changing formats, starting with the Asia Cup, has not been easy.
Gill revealed, “I am still trying to figure out how to manage it. Starting from the Asia Cup, we’ve been playing kind of back-to-back, traveling to different countries, switching between formats within four or five days.”
He also added, “The challenge is definitely more mental than physical.”
South Africa are the defending champions of the World Test Championship. They have a strong pace attack, so India will have to be in full form.
Gill said, “We know it won’t be easy against the reigning WTC champions. There will be tough moments, but we have handled them well. These two Tests are important in the race to the WTC final.”
This series is being played at home, where India has an excellent record. Gill’s comments show his maturing leadership skills.
The team is progressing even while respecting Shami. Young bowlers have been given opportunities, which bodes well for the future. The Test match begins on Friday, and all eyes are on Gill’s strategy.
