"He is on a purple patch" - R Ashwin speaks on Shubman Gill's workload management as India captain continues to play across all formats

Saurav Goyal

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"He is on a purple patch" - R Ashwin speaks on Shubman Gill's workload management as India captain continues to play across all formats image

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As India gears up for the Test series against South Africa starting from 14th November, the focus has once again shifted to Shubman Gill. He is in form with the bat and is also managing the pressure of playing in all three formats.

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recently spoke about Gill’s busy schedule, praising the young captain for staying in top rhythm despite the demanding calendar. 

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What did Ashwin say about Shubman Gill’s form and workload management?

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ash ki Baat, Ashwin said that Shubman Gill seems to be enjoying his game across formats, which makes it slightly easier for him to handle the workload.

He added that switching from T20s to Tests can be tricky because of the tricky movement with the ball, but Gill’s form helps him stay consistent.

"It is slightly easier for Shubman Gill because he is playing all three formats. Obviously, in red-ball it will be challenging. The ball will move. You will have to give respect to the bowler. He needs to work on his defence. Understandable that to make a switch from T20 to Test cricket is not easy. But, having said that, to be in flow is much better than not being in the flow," Ashwin said.

"I think the batting form which Shubman Gill is in, it is easier for him (to play all three formats). He is on a purple patch. As a cricketer he would be itching to play," he added

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Gill’s adaptability and hunger to keep improving means that the young captain looks well-prepared for the challenges of the red-ball series against South Africa.

What changes are expected for India in the South Africa Test series?

The Test series against South Africa begins on November 14 at Eden Gardens and India is likely to make a few adjustments in their playing XI.

The biggest news is the return of Rishabh Pant to the Test setup after missing the home series against the West Indies. Pant is expected to take his regular No. 5 spot, while Dhruv Jurel could slot in right after him at No. 6.

Ashwin hinted that Jurel’s form makes him hard to ignore, saying that India might play both Pant and Jurel in the same XI. However, players like Nitish Kumar Reddy could miss out due to the likely conditions at Kolkata and Guwahati.

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Contributing Writer