New Delhi: Under immense pressure, Shubman Gill silenced his critics by crafting a resilient century, marking his third in Test cricket on Sunday, February 4. In the 2nd Test against England in Visakhapatnam, the 24-year-old played a crucial role in rescuing India from a precarious situation on Day 3. Gill's century, achieved in 132 balls, not only bolstered India's lead beyond 300 but also served as a testament to his character and determination amid external doubts about his place in the team.
Facing the challenge of transitioning from an opening role to the No. 3 spot, Shubman Gill struggled initially after expressing his desire for the crucial batting position. Enduring a streak of 12 innings without a fifty at No. 3, Gill's Test career seemed uncertain, particularly after a first-innings dismissal to James Anderson in the Vizag Test. However, he displayed remarkable resolve, surviving close LBW calls and overcoming a shaky start to secure his second Test hundred at home.
Gill's century in Visakhapatnam marked the first three-figure score by a No. 3 batter for India at home since 2017. Notably, Cheteshwar Pujara was the last to achieve this feat in November 2017 against Sri Lanka in Nagpur. Gill, thrust into the batting order early in the second over of the day, stabilized the innings after the early loss of Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, forming crucial partnerships and showcasing a blend of attack and caution.
Throughout his innings, Shubman Gill exhibited impressive footwork against the England spin attack, striking 2 sixes and 11 boundaries en route to his well-deserved century. The innings not only bolstered India's position in the Test but also reinstated Gill's confidence and silenced doubts surrounding his place in the side.
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