Shubman Gill is known for being “laidback” in the dressing room — except when one specific batter walks out to bat.
Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant: The Captain-Vice Captain Duo Fueling India’s Charge
Team India is set to return to action on Thursday for the third Test of the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, with the series finely poised at 1-1. Riding high on a commanding 336-run win in the second Test at Edgbaston, India now carries the momentum into the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. Central to India’s performance so far have been captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Rishabh Pant, both of whom have consistently delivered across the first two matches.
Pant struck centuries in both innings of the first Test, while Shubman Gill matched the feat in the second, including a remarkable double century. Their on-field chemistry has also stood out, with Pant often seen advising Gill in pressure situations at the crease.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri recently shared a revealing anecdote about the bond between the two. Speaking to Sky Sports Cricket, Shastri recalled India’s 2020/21 tour of Australia, particularly the third Test in Sydney when Rishabh Pant’s counter-attacking 97 played a pivotal role in saving the match. Watching from the dressing room, a typically relaxed Shubman Gill was fully engaged.
“These two guys, the captain and the vice-captain… they are two peas in a pod. They know each other better than anyone,” said Shastri. “Shubman Gill is very laidback, but if Rishabh Pant comes to bat, he’s watching every ball. I asked him, ‘Why?’ He said, ‘Iska batting main kabhi nahi chhodta hu (I never miss his batting). Even if I have to go for a wee, it’s only at the end of the over.’”
Pant top-scored with 97 in that Sydney innings, helping India to 334/5 and securing a crucial draw. He later led the charge at the Gabba with an unbeaten 89 in a historic 328-run chase, sealing the series 2-1 in India’s favor.
Lord’s Test begins Thursday
Following their emphatic win at Edgbaston, both India and England have quickly turned their attention to the third Test at Lord’s, with only a three-day gap between the two matches. India’s bowling attack is set for a major boost as star pacer Jasprit Bumrah returns after being rested in the previous game.
Akash Deep, who stepped in for Bumrah, made a strong case to retain his spot with a stunning 10-wicket match haul. Mohammed Siraj also delivered a standout performance, claiming five wickets in the first innings. With all three pacers in top form, India will be looking to carry their bowling momentum into the iconic venue.