Before the ongoing India vs England Test series, a sword was hanging over Shubman Gill’s Test career. The batter was averaging 30 in his first 20 Tests. The first match of the series also didn’t go well for him, as he could score only 23 runs, including a duck. There were talks of selectors dropping him for the last three tests; however, Shubman Gill played a career-saving knock in the second Test in Vizag, as he reached a century in the second innings of the match.
The match-winning knock was enough to gain the selectors’ trust and include him in the squad for the remainder of the series. Shubman Gill scored a duck in the first innings of the 3rd Test, but, he fared well in the 2nd innings of the match. However, his brilliant knock ended in an unfortunate way.
A mix-up created by Kuldeep Yadav led to Shubman Gill’s dismissal
On the third day of the Test match, Shubman Gill was batting on 91 alongside Kuldeep Yadav, who took the role of nightwatchman at the end of day 2. In the 64th over, Kuldeep Yadav stepped out to Tom Hartley’s delivery and played a shot towards mid-on.
Kuldeep called for a run; however, he then showed hesitation and refused to complete it. Shubman Gill, who had covered half of the pitch, found himself in the danger end. Gill attempted to return and made a full-stretched dive. However, Ben Stokes’ accurate throw sent him packing. Shubman Gill reacted angrily after his unfortunate dismissal, while Kuldeep Yadav gave a sorrowful reaction.
— Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka (@Hanji_CricDekho) February 18, 2024
— Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka (@Hanji_CricDekho) February 18, 2024
After Shubman Gill’s departure, Yashasvi Jaiswal arrived at the crease, having retired hurt after scoring a century on the 2nd day. Jaiswal continued his aggressive approach and went on to score unbeaten 214. India declared their second innings at 430 runs, setting a 557-run target for the visitors.