India Test skipper Shubman Gill opened up on why he enforced a follow-on against West Indies during the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. India clinched the series 2-0 with a commanding seven-wicket win, yet the bold tactical call drew sharp reactions from fans.
After posting a huge first-innings total and dismissing West Indies for 248, India held a 273-run lead. Rather than opting to bat again, Gill decided to send the visitors back in. This sparked debate as the Indian attack had already spent 81.5 overs on the field.
Gill’s Thought Process Behind the Call
“We were around 300 runs ahead. We thought even if we scored like 500 runs and we have to get 6 or 7 wickets on day 5, it could be a tough day for us. So, that was the thought process,” Gill said in the post-match presentation while talking about the decision to enforce a follow-on.
India’s innings was set up by Yashasvi Jaiswal (175), Sai Sudharsan (87), and Gill (129*), taking the total to 518/5. West Indies faltered in reply, setting up the stage for Gill’s aggressive move.
Gill Enjoys First Series Win as Test Captain
This series marked Shubman Gill’s first victory as India’s Test captain, adding another milestone to his career. He acknowledged the new responsibilities and shared how he approaches decision-making on the field.
“It’s a big honour (to lead India). It’s a really big honour, I’m kind of getting used to it. Managing all the players, leading this team, is a great honour. It’s about taking the right options in the given situation. I try to make the most probable decision in the given situation that we are in that game. And sometimes you have to take a bold decision, depending on which player can get you certain runs or can get you those wickets,” he added.
Next Stop: Australia ODI Series
Gill will now guide India in a three-match ODI series against Australia. After the tour, India will host South Africa for a two-Test series in November. His leadership decisions will continue to draw attention as the team prepares for bigger challenges.
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