Shubman Gill goes past Sachin Tendulkar, breaking Virat Kohli’s record of…
New Delhi: Team India’s young captain, Shubman Gill, once again proved that he is not only a brilliant batsman but also a responsible leader. On Saturday, on the second day of the Delhi Test, he scored his 10th Test century of his career, reaching a new milestone as a captain.
Steadfast Innings After a Poor Start
The day started off poorly for Gill. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was on his way to his third double century, was run out due to a misunderstanding. This run-out was the result of a major lapse between Gill and Jaiswal. However, Gill did not let this disappointing incident overwhelm him. He maintained his composure and completed his century in the second session.
History Made as Captain
This was Shubman Gill’s fifth Test century in 12 innings as captain. This makes him the third-fastest captain in Test history to score five centuries. Only Alastair Cook (9 innings) and Sunil Gavaskar (10 innings) have achieved this feat faster than him.
This is only the third time an Indian Test captain has scored five centuries in a calendar year. Virat Kohli previously achieved this feat in 2017 and 2018, but Gill surpassed Kohli (18 innings) by achieving this feat in just 12 innings. Sachin Tendulkar had scored four centuries while captain in 1997.
Highest Innings at Home
This innings was also Gill’s highest individual innings in his home Test career. His previous best score was 128, which he made against Australia in Ahmedabad in 2023.
Gill started the day with 20 runs and eventually reached his century with the help of 16 brilliant fours and two sixes. He reached the milestone with a four off left-arm spinner Khary Pierre, raising his bat to thunderous applause from the entire stadium.
Building Strength Through Partnerships
Gill formed several important partnerships throughout the day. He shared a quickfire 91-run partnership with Nitish Kumar Reddy (43 runs) and then a crucial 102-run stand for the fifth wicket with Dhruv Jurel (44 runs). Both partnerships proved crucial in consolidating India’s lead.
Jaiswal’s Unfortunate Run Out
India suffered a major setback early in the day when Jaiswal, who had remained unbeaten on 175* on the first day, was run out due to a misjudged call. He attempted to score a run by playing a shot towards mid-off, but Gill failed to respond. Jaiswal was out of the crease and missed out on a brilliant double century.
West Indies Bowlers’ Tired Effort
The long bowling spell on Friday clearly showed its effect on the West Indies bowlers. They consistently struggled with their line and length. Jomel Warrican was the most successful bowler, taking three crucial wickets, including Reddy and KL Rahul. Anderson Phillip further compounded the team’s woes by dropping an easy catch of Reddy.
Gill Declares, India in a Strong Position
When Dhruv Jurel was bowled by Roston Chase with a low bouncer, Gill declared the Indian innings immediately. This decision gave India ample time to attack with the ball.
Story Highlight:
- Gill scores his 10th Test century and fifth as captain, entering elite company.
- Bounces back strongly after Jaiswal’s unfortunate run-out early in the day.
- Builds crucial partnerships with Reddy and Jurel to boost India’s total.
- Declares innings boldly as India aim for a clean sweep in the series.
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