Shubman Gill Fit Ahead Of First Sri Lanka Test (Img: X)
New Delhi: Team India has provided a major update on captain Shubman Gill’s fitness ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka, putting an end to concerns surrounding the star batter’s injury. India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule confirmed that Gill’s absence from the initial practice sessions was only a precautionary measure and there is no serious concern ahead of the series opener.
India and Sri Lanka are set to begin their two-match Test series on August 15 at the Galle International Stadium. Before the opening Test, the Indian team participated in a three-day practice match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI as part of their preparations.
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Concerns emerged after Shubman Gill missed the first two days of the practice game due to an impact injury on his right ring finger during a training session. However, the Indian skipper returned on the third day and showed no signs of discomfort, scoring 44 runs in the match.
His return to the field provided relief to the team management and fans ahead of the crucial Test series.
Speaking after the practice match, India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule said Gill was kept away from action as a precaution and there was no major injury issue.
He stated that the team management decided not to risk Gill in the early stages of the tour game, but his batting performance on the third day showed that he was fully prepared for the Test match. According to Bahutule, Gill has been training well and is completely ready for the upcoming challenge in Sri Lanka.
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Bahutule also praised Gill’s approach towards preparation, saying the Indian captain takes his responsibilities seriously and prepares according to the demands of every series.
He highlighted that Gill has been closely analysing Sri Lanka’s bowling attack and working with the available net bowlers to sharpen his skills before the Test series.
With Gill fit and available, India will enter the first Test with confidence. The series will be an important challenge for the Indian team as they look to adapt quickly to Sri Lanka’s spin-friendly conditions.
The Galle Test will mark the beginning of a new battle between the two teams, with Shubman Gill expected to play a key role in India’s batting lineup.
