Gill Reflects on First Test Series Win as Captain: ‘It’s About Taking the Right Options’
Shubman Gill marked a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, leading India to a 2-0 series victory over the West Indies in his first home Test series as captain. India sealed the win with a seven-wicket triumph in Delhi on Day 5 of the second Test.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gill reflected on his early days as Test captain, stating, “It’s about taking the right options in the given situation. I try to make the most probable decision depending on the game scenario. Sometimes you have to take bold decisions — the X-factor choices — that can bring you key runs or wickets.”
Bold Decisions, Tactical Calls
One such decision under scrutiny was India enforcing the follow-on after taking a 270-run lead, despite a strong 177-run third-wicket partnership between West Indies' John Campbell and Shai Hope. Gill defended the move, explaining the rationale behind it.
"The wicket was quite dead, and even if we scored 500 more, taking six or seven wickets on Day 5 would have been tough," he said.
Another talking point was the non-utilisation of fast-bowling allrounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who didn’t bowl a single over in the match. Gill clarified, “We don’t want players to only play matches overseas. If we’re grooming players we believe can win us games abroad, we need to find them roles here too.”
Kuldeep, Jadeja Star with the Ball
Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler of the series, taking 12 wickets, including eight in the Delhi Test, which earned him the Player-of-the-Match award. Back in the XI after missing the England tour, Kuldeep adapted impressively to contrasting conditions in Ahmedabad and Delhi.
"Playing two Tests back-to-back is always fun," Kuldeep said. “I enjoy bowling long spells. This pitch was very dry, with less drift compared to Ahmedabad, so I had to adjust my pace and variation accordingly.”
Kuldeep also credited veteran Ravindra Jadeja for mentoring him through the challenges. “It’s lovely to have him around. He’s always guided me during tough situations.”
Jadeja himself had a productive series, both with bat and ball, and was named Player of the Series. Promoted to No. 6 in the batting order, he has responded with crucial contributions, including a recent century in Ahmedabad.
"I’ve mostly batted at No. 8 or 9 in the past, so this change in role has been a shift in mindset. I just try to spend more time in the middle now," Jadeja remarked.
Eyes on the Next Challenge: Australia
With the West Indies series done, there’s little time to rest. India’s multi-format players are already preparing to depart for Australia, with the first ODI scheduled for October 19.
Kuldeep plans to squeeze in some football-viewing before the flight. “We hardly have time, but I’ll catch a few games. We’re flying tomorrow, and the next match is in five days, so preparation is key.”
As for Gill, planning for Australia can wait — for a bit. “It’s a long flight,” he said with a smile. “Maybe we can talk about it there.”