Former England opener Nick Knight believes that Shubman Gill, who is set to lead India in the upcoming five-match Test series against England, will be in the direct line of fire. Knight emphasised that England will try to exploit Gill’s new responsibilities as captain by applying early pressure and unsettling him.
Gill, one of India’s most promising batters, is entering a new phase of his career as he takes over the Test captaincy following Rohit Sharma's retirement. Still only 25, Gill has been seen as the heir apparent to India's batting legacy.
While his talent is undeniable, Shubman Gill’s journey as an away Test batter remains a work in progress. His technique has been occasionally questioned, especially against the moving ball outside Asia. In 32 Tests so far, he averages around 35, but that average dips outside India to 27.53.
Also read: India Tour of England: Coach Gautam Gambhir joins squad in Leeds ahead of first Test
Nick Knight Breaks Down How Shubman Gill Will Be Targeted
The five-match series between India and England, starting June 20 at the Headingley, will also mark Gill’s first major assignment as captain in the longest format. The English media and experts have already begun dissecting his technique and leadership acumen and Knight’s remarks reflect that narrative clearly.
Speaking to the Times of India, Knight stated that England’s strategy will revolve around putting pressure on Gill from the outset.
"I think that's going to be pretty crucial because every side, and England will do it. You can bet your bottom dollar, England will do it. No side is more vulnerable than when its captain is feeling a little under pressure and vulnerable. That has a huge impact on the whole dressing room, right? So England will target Shubman Gill. England will try and knock him over. England will try and make him feel uncomfortable," Knight said as quoted to TOI.
Knight pointed out that opposition bowlers often look to rattle a new skipper to unsettle the entire unit. According to him, if Gill struggles early in the series, it could affect India's performance collectively.
"Because they'll feel that that might have a knock-on effect with those around him. So it's a huge series for Shubman Gill. Who, by the way, I am a huge fan of. And have been for a long, long time. I remember seeing Shubman at 18, 19 in an Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand. And I went, wow, this boy can play."
Knight has been part of the IPL commentary setup and followed Gill closely in domestic and international cricket. He mentioned a technical flaw that opposition bowlers may look to exploit. While talking to PTI, Knight explained:
"Well, when I've been out in India (for IPL commentary), I always highlight the same thing, really. Sometimes with Shubman, more so when you're sort of a little lacking in confidence and striving for things a little bit for your form, sometimes that front leg just pushes across a little bit too much. And, therefore, the rotation of the body and accessing the ball and playing around that front pad."
However, Knight also acknowledged recent improvements in Gill’s technique and temperament.
"But of late, I haven't seen that quite so much, if I'm brutally honest."
Knight further elaborated on how left-arm seamers swinging the ball back in could test Gill’s technique.
"...But it becomes more important when you've got a left-armer coming over the wicket and swinging it back into the pads. That's something that he will probably be always aware of. That line outside off stump, again, will be the challenge for all these top-order players, particularly in England," the cricketer-turned-commentator highlighted.
Where Will Shubham Gill Bat?
Gill, who has been batting at No. 3 for quite some time now, is expected to fill in the spot vacated by Virat Kohli at four.
This will also shield him from the moving ball early on and India could use his experience better.
Also read: IND vs ENG 2025: "There Is Lot More Method To It" - Joe Root Analyses England's "Bazball" Approach
