The Indian cricket team’s only problem that has not been solved even after the World Cup has come to an end is No. 4. Team India can solve that problem if Shubman Gill is roped in at that position feels Dav Whatmore.
Whatmore is a successful international coach who believes Shubman Gill is the man for Team India to solve the No.4 crisis. Gill has made his presence felt at the age-group level, domestic level and for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.
The 65-year-old said at a promotional event, “The No. 4 issue kept raising its head. India should look at the future. Shubman Gill is a fantastic young batsman and he could well fill that slot. He’s got the technique.”
He believes that any great cricket team like India can have a bad day in a semi-final and bow out of the tournament. The Kiwis toppled the top order early and the middle order couldn’t complete the challenge in front of them.
“India had a good tournament. It topped the group after nine matches, made runs, had a very good bowling attack, both pace, and spin. But India ran into New Zealand in the semifinal, and the Kiwis made full use of helpful conditions. It’s just one defeat in a World Cup semifinal that can happen to any team. New Zealand did too much damage in the first 10 overs. India has got some powerful stroke makers and a potent attack. It should do very well in the coming days,” the Australian said.
The Indian team management’s decision to include Vijay Shankar in the squad in place of Ambati Rayudu was questioned by many cricket experts and fans. However, Dav supported the decision saying that they took the decision in the best interest of the team.
“The team-management made decisions which were in the best interests of the team. India was unlucky with injuries, lost some key players. Then you have Vijay Shankar who is a fine batsman and a useful medium pacer. Unfortunately, he got injured during the World Cup. As a coach I am always worried about cricketers picking up injuries during net sessions,” the coach of Kerala Ranji Trophy team said.
He also commented on whether the time has come for MS Dhoni to retire from international cricket. “You need to look at the influence he has on the team and the youngsters as a senior player, on the field, dressing room, team meetings, in the bus. Dhoni’s contribution has been enormous. He alone should decide when he leaves the international stage.”
(Source: Sportstar)
