India may have lost the third Test at Lord’s in a tight finish, but the team remains hopeful ahead of the fourth match at Old Trafford, starting July 23. A key figure under focus is captain Shubman Gill, who has impressed with both the bat and his leadership. Despite a quiet outing at Lord’s, where he scored just 16 and 6, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar feels Gill has what it takes to bounce back in Manchester.Looking back at Gill’s display in the previous Test, Manjrekar said, “His role is important, but India will also reflect on the fact that in the third Test match at Lord’s, there was no contribution from Gill with the bat. Despite that, India’s batting line-up still managed to challenge England. So, that’s a good takeaway – we are not completely dependent on Gill.” Gill came into the Lord’s Test on the back of three centuries in the series, including a career-best 269. He has scored 607 runs so far, with two Tests left in the series.
Manjrekar believes the break between matches will help Gill reset. “I believe he has the ability to carry forward his form,“ he told JioHotstar. Referring to the captain’s mindset, Manjrekar added, “During this break, perhaps with some introspection and conversations with his friends and father about the recent altercation. He just needs to focus on his captaincy, fielding, tactics, and batting. If he does that, I believe the run-making machine that was once in motion is well-oiled and will start running again at Old Trafford.”
Poll
What aspect of Shubman Gill’s performance is most crucial for India’s success in the fourth Test?
India trail the five-match series 2-1, making the fourth Test in Manchester a must-win to stay in contention.
