With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy currently poised at 1-1, the third Test could well be a make or break for India and Australia as the two teams are slated to square off at the Gabba from Saturday (December 14).

On the eve of the match, India batter Shubman Gill addressed a press conference in Brisbane, where he admitted getting nostalgic after arriving at the iconic venue.

Notably, Gill had played a superb knock of 91 to script India’s series-clinching victory at the Gabba in the 2020/21 tour.

Regarding the pitch, Shubman said the visitors will get to know once they play. “It was nostalgic walking into the stadium after 2021. The wicket looks good, we’ll know more tomorrow,” he told reporters.

India made a strong start to the five-match series with a commanding 295-run victory in the first Test at Perth. However, the hosts bounced back in the second Test at Adelaide, winning by a dominant 10-wicket margin.

Sharing the experience of pink-ball Test, Gill said, “The pink ball was harder to pick, especially at night. We’re more accustomed to the red ball.”

The 25-year-old further explained why playing Test cricket in Australia is the most challenging. “The intensity of Test matches here is what makes touring Australia difficult,” he said.

“The mental aspect is challenging. Maintaining mental intensity is crucial. The pitches can be fast and bouncy.”

While Gill missed the series opener due to a fractured thumb, he returned with scores of 31 and 28 in the second Test. The right-hander would be keen to make amends in the third Test, starting December 14.

“As long as I was batting, I felt good. In the first innings, I let what was happening at the other end affect me. I missed a full ball. In the second, I couldn’t pick the pink ball from hand… couldn’t read it. That’s why I got out.”

“I felt pretty confident. I still feel I have the freedom to play (just like the last tour). I faltered in the first innings of the last game. I was out of strike for 3-4 overs and then missed a full ball. These are the mental challenges you face in Australia,” he remarked.

Shubman Gill also acknowledged the challenges of playing a long Test series. “It’s challenging. A bowler might have dismissed you earlier, but you face them again later. You know their plans. That’s the fun.”

“Australia knows our strengths and weaknesses, and vice versa. We’ve been playing each other frequently, so we’re aware of each other’s plans,” he said.

The Gabba Test will be a moving one in the context of the ongoing series, but Gill is confident of India’s good showing.

“We’ve won the last few series. So there’s no fear. Perhaps if we hadn’t won, maybe. We just assess the ball being bowled, not who’s bowling. We just focus on not getting too aggressive or too defensive,” he said.

Gill clarified why India skipper Rohit Sharma didn’t come to attend the press conference. “It was optional net session today. I’m here, he’s not. Hence I’m speaking,” he said.

Shubman also reacted to Australian captain Pat Cummins’ threat to attack the Indian batters with bouncers.

“Apart from one wicket, he’s only had success with the short ball against tailenders. So I don’t know what short ball plan he’s talking about,” he stated.

(With The Indian Express Inputs)