Shubman Gill, India’s young captain, is under scrutiny after India’s narrow defeat to England in the third Test at Lord’s. While Gill’s form with the bat has been remarkable — scoring 485 runs in the series, including a career-best 269 — his temperament came under question following a verbal spat during Day 3 of the Test.
The 25-year-old engaged in a heated exchange with England’s Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, even using obscene language and gestures, which were caught on camera. The incident drew criticism from fans and pundits alike, especially after Gill fell cheaply for 6 in the fourth innings.
💬 Sanjay Manjrekar’s Take:
Speaking on ESPNCricinfo’s Match Day, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed concern over Gill’s reaction and its effect on his focus:
“The thing with Virat Kohli was that he would get even more fired up and become a better batter. What disappointed me with Shubman Gill… that didn’t have the right effect on him as a batter.”
Manjrekar questioned whether the show of aggression was genuine or a result of his new leadership role:
“If Gill had that kind of fiery side, we would’ve seen it earlier. You don’t have to show it just because you’re captain. Virat had that trait long before he led India.”
🧠 Mental Reset Needed
With an 8-day gap before the fourth Test in Manchester, Manjrekar believes this is the perfect time for Gill to recalibrate:
“He’s got good people around him. His father, who’s been instrumental in his career, will help him find balance. Whether he’s more like Kohli, Dhoni, or someone in between — he must channel it in a way that benefits both his batting and leadership.”
🏏 Series Context
India trails 1–2 in the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The team will regroup ahead of the fourth Test, starting July 23 in Manchester.