‘We will continue to fight’: Amid the storm, Test captain Shubman Gill backs the Indian team | Cricket News
NEW DELHI: Indian men’s Test team captain Shubman Gill called for patience, perspective and unity after India suffered their heaviest defeat ever in Test cricket, losing 408 runs against South Africa in the second Test in Guwahati. The defeat completed a 2-0 run for the visitors and marked South Africa’s first Test series victory on Indian soil in 25 years.Gill, recovering from a neck injury that forced him out of the match and the next ODI series, addressed fans and teammates with a message of determination on X.
“Calm seas do not teach you to lead, it is the storm that forges steady hands. We will continue to believe in each other, to fight for each other and to move forward, growing stronger,” he wrote, reassuring in a time of pressure and scrutiny.
Gill had flown with the team to Guwahati despite his injury, with the team management initially hoping he could recover in time for a late fitness call-up. However, after a medical assessment, he was not found ready for the match and later traveled to Mumbai to consult specialist Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala. He has now been ruled out of the three-match ODI series starting November 30 and is expected to be re-evaluated ahead of the T20Is which begin on December 9.The defeat itself was categorical. Chasing an improbable 549, India were bowled out for 140 on the final day. South African spinner Simon Harmer dismantled the line-up batting with a career-best 6-37, while Marco Jansen was named player of the match for his 93 with the bat and 6-48 in the first innings. Aiden Markram added nine catches, which was also the most by a fielder in a single Test. Ravindra Jadeja top-scored for India with 54, but the resistance was limited and short-lived.With Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer unavailable, the selectors are now faced with decisions regarding temporary management and recalibration of the line-up for the ODIs. KL Rahul will lead the team in the ODI series.Gill’s message comes at a tense time for Indian cricket, following two flawless series wins at home – a humiliating 0-3 against New Zealand in 2024 and now 0-2 against South Africa a year later. Moreover, it’s not just the players who are under scrutiny with head coach Gautam Gambhir also under the scanner as pressure mounts on him to stick to the format.His call for composure demonstrates leadership beyond the field, as India look to restore confidence and direction ahead of a demanding schedule.
