Shubman Gill had an outstanding start to his new role as India’s designated ODI vice-captain, hitting a match-winning 87 off 96 balls in the first ODI against England at Nagpur on Thursday. Despite cramping up in his legs, Gill played a flawless knock, hitting 14 boundaries. His vigil helped India successfully chase down the target set for them by England, 249 in just 38.4 overs. They won four wickets in hand and went 1-0 up in the three-match series. For Gill, who remains vice-captain for the upcoming Champions Trophy, the match was a reminder of what his captain Rohit Sharma told him sometime ago: to freely offer his insights during the game.
What Rohit Sharma Said To Shubman Gill?
“In batting not much has changed,” Gill said when asked about being elevated as the vice-captain of the ODI team. “…but on the field I want to know what the thinking is and what Rohit bhai thinks and give my inputs. He tells me if you want to tell me anything in the match, do not hesitate.”
Also Read: Virat Kohli Injury: Shubman Gill Drops Big Update About Kohli For 2nd ODI
Shubman Gill On His Game-Play
“[Thoughts at 19 for 2] Trying to be positive. There was a little in it for fast bowlers. Idea was to not to go too much on the back foot, play good cricketing shots. When a player [Iyer] comes like that, the opposition also goes on the back foot. Good decision on his part, also helped me,” Gill said.
India’s Incredible Performance Against England
India suffered an early setback in the chase as they lost Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma, but Gill was optimistic. The arrival of Shreyas Iyer who played a scintillating 59 off 36 balls lifted the pressure off Gill and shifted the momentum in India’s favor. India had dominated the game with the ball as Ravindra Jadeja (3/26 from 9 overs) and debutant Harshit Rana shared six wickets to restrict England to a modest total of 248.
Also Read: IND Vs ENG: Shreyas Iyer Reveals Shocking Truth About His Selection In 1st ODI
Rana’s pivotal spell, which included the crucial wickets of Ben Duckett and Harry Brook, effectively derailed England’s innings. Despite half-centuries from England’s Jos Buttler (52) and Jack Bethell (51), they were unable to rebuild, leaving India in complete control.
