Shubman Gill’s Exclusion from Fifth Test XI Raises Questions, Ravi Shastri Reacts
The Indian cricket team is set to face Australia in the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT 2024-25) at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3. Trailing in the series, this is a crucial game for India as they aim to retain the trophy. However, one decision that has left fans and experts puzzled is the exclusion of star batter Shubman Gill from India’s playing XI for the Sydney Test.
India’s Roller-Coaster Journey in the Series
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 has been a challenging campaign for India. After a commanding victory in the series opener in Perth, the team faltered in Adelaide, managed a draw in Brisbane, and suffered another defeat in Melbourne. With Australia leading the series, India must secure a win in Sydney to level the series and retain the prestigious trophy.
Shubman Gill Left Out: A Controversial Decision
The announcement of India’s playing XI for the fifth Test stirred controversy as Shubman Gill, one of the team’s most promising batters, was left out. Gill, who has averaged over 40 in 2024, has been a consistent performer for India in the longer format. His exclusion has sparked debate among cricketing circles, with former India coach Ravi Shastri openly criticizing the decision.
Ravi Shastri’s Take on Gill’s Exclusion
Speaking on the ICC Review, Ravi Shastri expressed his disappointment over Gill’s omission.
“There’s Shubman Gill, a player of his quality averaging over 40 in the year 2024, and not playing, which is a shame. When you average over 40 – I think he’s averaging 43 or 44 – for him to be sitting and cooling his heels must be one of the toughest pills to swallow,” Shastri remarked.
He further questioned the rationale behind the decision. “It tricks your brain as to what he’s doing sitting on the bench and warming it. How can he be out of the XI? That’s my question. Now, how he comes into the XI, that’s the call of the team. If I had to make him sit out or make a player who is averaging 40 sit out, what will I tell him?” Shastri added.
Gill’s Form and the Melbourne Exclusion
Shubman Gill’s exclusion from the Melbourne Test came after a dip in form. In the series, Gill scored just 60 runs in three innings across the two matches he played. While his performance in this series has been underwhelming, Gill’s overall record for India in Test cricket remains impressive, making his omission surprising to many.
India’s Playing XI for the Sydney Test
India’s playing XI for the fifth Test sees a few adjustments. While Gill’s absence stands out, the management appears to have prioritized current form and team balance in their selection.
Conclusion
Shubman Gill’s exclusion from India’s playing XI for the Sydney Test has added an intriguing subplot to the final clash of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. As India aims for a series-levelling victory, the decision to bench a player of Gill’s caliber will likely remain a talking point. Whether the move pays off or backfires will be determined on the field as the two teams battle it out at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
FAQs
1. Why was Shubman Gill dropped for the fifth Test?
Gill was excluded due to his poor form in the series, scoring just 60 runs in three innings. The team management opted for other players based on current form.
2. What did Ravi Shastri say about Gill’s exclusion?
Ravi Shastri criticized the decision, highlighting Gill’s strong average in 2024 and questioning the rationale behind leaving him out of the playing XI.
3. What is at stake in the fifth Test for India?
India needs to win the fifth Test to draw the series 2-2 and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as they were the previous holders.
4. How has India performed in the series so far?
India won the first Test in Perth, lost in Adelaide, drew in Brisbane, and lost in Melbourne. They trail the series heading into the final Test in Sydney.
5. Who are the key players for India in the fifth Test?
Players like KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Jasprit Bumrah will be crucial for India’s chances in the Sydney Test.