According to India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill, the team’s current batting lineup for the Champions Trophy is exceptional, surpassing any he has previously experienced. He highlights the presence of two ODI legends in the top order and batting strength extending down to number 8.
Gill stated, “This is the finest batting lineup I’ve been involved with. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are, in my opinion, among the greatest one-day players ever. Rohit is one of the best openers in white-ball cricket, and Virat’s reputation speaks for itself as one of the best ODI batsmen of all time. Batting between them, and followed by players like Shreyas Iyer in excellent form, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja, gives us incredible strength.”
Despite the Champions Trophy being held in Dubai, known for slightly lower-scoring matches, all of India’s top seven batsmen have achieved scores exceeding 40 runs in the tournament. Ravindra Jadeja, typically batting at number 8, has only needed to bat in two out of four games. Gill points out that this deep batting lineup and current form empower the top order to play with greater freedom.
“The depth in our batting allows the top order to play more freely. We can play with less restraint knowing we have such depth. Previously, a lack of batting depth placed more pressure on the top order to score heavily and bat for longer durations. Now, this depth allows us to express ourselves more at the crease,” Gill explained.
Gill, who scored an unbeaten 101 in India’s opening match against Bangladesh, clarified that playing freely doesn’t necessarily mean taking unnecessary risks. Instead, it’s about strategically choosing moments to be aggressive.
“I don’t consciously decide to take more or fewer risks,” Gill said. “For me, it’s about being in my optimal zone and taking calculated risks. I prefer to take risks when I sense the bowler is under pressure.”
He further elaborated on his instinctive approach to batting, emphasizing the importance of adapting to match situations during training. Gill aims to replicate match intensity in his net sessions, considering various scenarios and focusing on smart run accumulation, even when boundary hitting isn’t easy. He believes mastering these “small things” through repetition is crucial for maintaining his zone and performing consistently in matches.
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