Shubman Gill breaks silence on India’s playing XI for first Test against England, says ‘We have one…’

New Delhi: Indian Test team’s newly appointed captain, Shubman Gill, addressed the media on the eve of the five-match Test series against England.

Shubman Gill on India’s playing XI for first Test against England

In a press meet, Shubman Gill explained the Indian frame of mind against the high stakes series that also marks the start of India in their new World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-2027. When Gill was asked about the playing XI in the first Test starting June 20, the batter said that the final team is yet to be picked. But he said that the team had made one or two other possible combinations and they were not fixed to their choices.

“We have one or two different combinations ready. Will have a look at the pitch and take the call,” Gill said in the pre-match press conference.

“You have to wait till August to see what kind of brand we will play,” said Shubman on Indian team’s approach in this World Test Championship cycle.

Gill also clarified his future plans in the series by saying that he wants to concentrate on himself as a batter only and not allow the rest of the responsibilities of captaincy to take place in his head when he is batting.

“When I want to go out there and bat, I want to play as a batter and not think about captaincy that can put pressure on me. I want to be the best batter in the series,” he added.

The topic that Gill also addressed related to the atmosphere in the dressing room and he mentioned that it is essential to create a safe and supportive environment for the players. He pointed out that this is the kind of culture that would be essential in the growth and overall achievement of the team.

“We want to create an environment in the team which is very secure,” Gill concluded.

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