TV
Before the start of the high-voltage Test series, questions swirled around Shubman Gill’s ability to succeed in challenging English conditions. The young Indian skipper silenced the doubters emphatically, notching up his second successive century on English soil with an unbeaten 114 at Edgbaston on Wednesday.
This remarkable feat followed his dazzling 147 at Headingley, making Gill only the second Indian captain after Mohammad Azharuddin (1990) to score consecutive Test hundreds in England. Gill's previous best score in overseas conditions was 91 which he scored against Australia in Brisbane,Gabba in 2021.
Calm Under Pressure, Class in Execution
Coming in at No. 4 with India wobbling at 161 for 3 after Karun Nair’s dismissal, Gill steadied the ship with a masterclass in patience and precision. His innings, laced with 12 elegant boundaries, was a testament to his composure and ability to lead from the front.
At stumps on Day 1, India had posted 310/5, with Gill still standing tall at the crease and eyeing a bigger score on Day 2.
Joining an Elite League of Indian Batting Greats
With his twin tons, Gill has joined an exclusive club of Indian batters to score centuries in three consecutive Tests against England. The list features stalwarts like Mohammad Azharuddin, Dilip Vengsarkar, and Rahul Dravid, who achieved the feat twice. Before Headingley and Edgbaston, Gill had also scored a century at Dharamsala during England’s 2024 India tour.
A Captain’s Roar
Gill’s animated celebration, roaring, raising his helmet, bowing to the crowd, and kissing his bat, captured the emotions of a young captain leading from the front in his first Test series at the helm. He also became the fourth Indian skipper to score centuries in his first two Tests as captain, following Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, and Virat Kohli.
A Statement Made, a Legacy in the Making
By conquering English conditions, Gill has not only silenced critics but also written his name alongside Indian greats. With three matches still to play, the stage is set for him to build a lasting legacy as both a batter and a leader.
