Shubman Gill’s First Net Session: Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Manjrekar recently revisited Shubman Gill’s first-ever net session with the senior Indian team, sharing an anecdote that showcased the young batter’s extraordinary talent. Speaking on Star Sports, Manjrekar recalled how Gill’s performance against throwdown specialists left then-head coach Ravi Shastri in awe.
A “Screen Test” Like No Other
In India’s net sessions, players are often judged by how well they handle throwdown specialists, who deliver high-speed deliveries to test a batter’s reflexes. Gill’s first outing was nothing short of a spectacle.
“During that session, which is like a screen test, he produced such incredible shots. Ravi Shastri was like, ‘We have found a ready-made player,'” Manjrekar recalled.
The Rise of a Modern Batting Sensation
Ever since his international debut in 2019, following a stellar U19 World Cup campaign in 2018, Gill has established himself as one of India’s most promising all-format batters.
Gill’s International Stats at a Glance
- Overall: 4,886 runs in 101 matches (12 centuries, 24 fifties)
- ODIs: 2,415 runs in 48 matches at an average of 58.90, including six centuries and 14 fifties
- Fastest to 2,000 ODI runs (38 innings)
- Youngest double-centurion in ODIs
- Tests: 1,893 runs in 32 matches at an average of 35.05 (5 centuries, 7 fifties)
- T20Is: 578 runs in 21 matches at a strike rate of 139.27, including one century
Despite being in the elite list of Indian players with centuries in all formats, Gill’s Test statistics still need improvement to match his full potential.
A Crucial Knock Against England
During the first ODI against England, Gill played a crucial 87-run knock in 96 balls, anchoring India’s chase of 249 after a shaky start at 19/2.
As India gears up for the second ODI in Cuttack, all eyes will once again be on Shubman Gill, the young batting sensation who continues to justify Ravi Shastri’s first impression of him.
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