Shubman Gill backs two-spinner theory for 2nd Test: Unusual but it works

India Today

19 hours ago

India's Test skipper Shubman Gill has hinted at a possible shift in strategy ahead of the second Test against England in Birmingham, supporting the idea of fielding two spinners — an uncommon move in English conditions, but one he believes could pay off given the unusually dry summer.Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Gill pointed out that Edgbaston's typically seam-friendly reputation may not hold this time around due to the hot and dry weather sweeping across the UK.advertisement"In England, generally teams don't play with two spinners, but the weather isn't typical and there is very less rain, a lot of heat," Gill said. "So playing an extra spinner won't be a bad option."
India were in control for the majority of the first Test in Leeds but failed to close out the game, with Ben Duckett's counter-attacking 149 leading England to a five-wicket win on the final day. Reflecting on that match, Gill believes that including another spinner might have changed the outcome."Even in the previous game, I felt having another spinner could've made the difference since Jaddu bhai (Ravindra Jadeja) was successful in asking questions to the batters and containing runs as well."Gill explained that on flat tracks where the ball stops swinging after the initial overs, spin can be crucial-not necessarily to take wickets but to control the game and create pressure leading into the second new ball.advertisement"On batting-friendly conditions wherein the ball isn't swinging much after 30-40 overs, a spinner can stop the runflow if not pick wickets. That helps the pacers return fresh later on."However, he acknowledged that the decision isn't straightforward and comes with its own risks-particularly if India end up bowling on Day 1 when conditions could still favour seamers."These are difficult calls to take because, if we are going in with an extra spinner, we'd need to think about how to manage the second spinner on day one if we are bowling first."Gill stressed the importance of a well-rounded playing XI and indicated that India would look for a combination that ensures batting depth without compromising bowling versatility."Ideally we would want to have batting depth till seven or eight. It is also important to find the right combination for the particular ground and that particular match," he said."It is important to be consistent against England's batting lineup and bowl in one area-maybe try and make them play in front of the wicket as much as possible."- EndsTune InYou May Also Like