Shubman Gill is facing a baptism by fire as India’s Test captain, with his first series itself being a five-match tour of England. India are playing a tour game against India A in Beckenham and the first Test of the series itself starts on June 20 at Headingley. Kuldeep Yadav, who is set to play an integral role in the tour particularly after the retirement of Ravichandran Ashwin, has said that he feels Gill has shown a lot of motivation thus far.
“Shubman knows how to lead,” Kuldeep is quoted as saying by PTI. “He has worked with a lot of captains, especially Rohit bhai, and learned from them. What I have seen so far is that he is very motivated. He is focussing on lifting the spirit of the team. He is ready for the job.”
Kuldeep said that the wickets in Beckenham has been good for spinners thus far, with three days of the intra-squad match having been played. “The wickets are looking good for spinners. It has been good for batting (in Intra Squad game here). First day there was moisture, seamers got help but as the game progressed, spinners got in the game,” Kuldeep said. The wrist spinner said he hopes to get some assistance from the surfaces over the course of the five games. “There is bounce for spinners on this surface. Today is day three, I am yet to bowl. The ball is turning a bit and I hope it is the same in the series as well,” said Kuldeep.
While Ashwin is missed in the dressing room, Kuldeep said that his interactions with Jadeja have increased in the time that the pair have spent in England. Jadeja has played 12 Tests in England in his illustrious career. “Playing alongside Jaddu bhai is an honour. Jaddu and Ash have been brilliant for India. When I made my debut they helped me a lot. I am now having regular chats with Jaddu bhai on how to bowl to certain batters. I am spending a lot of time with him both on and off the field. It helps me a lot tactic wise. We have been talking about field placements and he has given me clues as well,” said Kuldeep.
