Is it Hard to Choose Who to Exclude? Shubman Gill Weighs In
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Synopsis
Shubman Gill reflects on the challenges of team selection as India prepares for a Test series against South Africa. With an abundance of quality all-rounders, Gill refers to this selection dilemma as a 'good problem.' Discover more about his experiences and the excitement surrounding the upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Shubman Gill emphasizes the strength of the all-rounders in the Indian team.
- The selection process is described as a 'good problem to have.'
- Eden Gardens will host its first Test in six years.
- South Africa is coming off a strong performance, making this series highly anticipated.
- Gill's personal connection to Kolkata adds depth to his experience.
Kolkata, Nov 13 (NationPress) India’s red-ball captain Shubman Gill expressed that the team and management feel exceptionally lucky to possess such talented all-rounders in their lineup. He concurred with head coach Gautam Gambhir regarding the selection conundrum, emphasizing that determining who to exclude is quite challenging.
Previously, Gambhir shared that the most difficult aspect of his role involves discussing with in-form players who are not selected for the playing XI, a sentiment he expressed in a video released by the BCCI.
As the Indian squad prepares to take on South Africa in a two-match Test series, all attention will be directed towards the coach, captain, and management as they finalize the playing XI for the match set at Eden Gardens in Kolkata this Friday.
“We’re incredibly fortunate to have such high-quality all-rounders. Each of them boasts impressive batting and bowling statistics, particularly in Indian conditions,” Gill remarked during the pre-match press conference ahead of the first Test.
The 26-year-old admitted that while the selection process can be daunting, he referred to it as a ‘positive dilemma,’ stating, “As a captain, it’s always tough to decide who to leave out — but that’s a positive dilemma. It sets the stage for an exciting Test match ahead. South Africa performed remarkably in their recent series, which ended in a draw, and that’s why they hold the title of reigning champions. This promises to be a fiercely competitive series.”
Eden Gardens is set to host a Test match for the first time in six years, with India’s last red-ball game here occurring during the 2019 series against Bangladesh. Gill has cherished memories of Kolkata, having launched his Indian Premier League career at this venue with the Kolkata Knight Riders.
When asked about his feelings, Gill, who is set to play his inaugural Test at this iconic ground, stated, “I carry many fond memories from here. My IPL journey began at this venue, and every visit feels reminiscent of playing at the PCA Stadium in Punjab. The last Test held here was a pink-ball match (in 2019); though I wasn’t in the playing XI, I was part of the squad, making this my first Test at Eden Gardens, and it’s always a profound honor to represent my country here.”
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the depth of talent within the Indian cricket team. Shubman Gill's perspective on the selection dilemma reflects a positive outlook for the team. With a rich pool of all-rounders, the team is well-equipped for the challenges posed by South Africa, promising an exhilarating Test series for fans and players alike.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Shubman Gill say about team selection?
Gill expressed that the team is fortunate to have quality all-rounders and acknowledged the difficulty of deciding who to leave out, calling it a 'good problem to have.'
Who is the head coach of the Indian team?
The head coach of the Indian team is Gautam Gambhir.
When was the last Test match played at Eden Gardens?
The last Test match at Eden Gardens took place in 2019 against Bangladesh.
How does Shubman Gill feel about playing at Eden Gardens?
Gill has fond memories of Eden Gardens and considers it an honor to play his first Test match at this iconic venue.
What is the significance of the upcoming Test series against South Africa?
The series is significant as it features India facing the reigning champions, South Africa, in a highly competitive environment.
