Shubman Gill opens up on Mohammad Shami’s exclusion ahead of IND vs SA 2025 1st Test

Indian captain Shubman Gill has reflected on Mohammad Shami’s exclusion ahead of the opening Test match against South Africa. Shami has scalped 15 wickets in three Ranji Trophy matches for Bengal in the ongoing first-class tournament at an average of 15.53 but he has been ignored by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel.

Gill said they can not ignore the performances of current bowlers. Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna and Jasprit Bumrah have done a consistent job for the Indian team.

“There are not many bowlers of his quality. You cannot ignore the performances of the current bowlers like Akash, Prasidh. Sometimes it’s difficult for players like Shami bhai to miss out. Selectors will be able to give you a better answer,” Gill said during the pre-match press conference ahead of the first Test.

Gill said the workload of fast bowlers is more when they play in overseas conditions as compared to home conditions.

“When we are playing overseas, the workload is higher than when in India. The fast bowlers also know this. The load on fast bowlers when in India won’t be as much as compared to spinners,” Gill said.

Gill revealed he is in a good position physically and admits the mental challenge is going to be hard.

Gill concluded, “Still trying to figure it out what gives me best chance to succeed. The challenge is more mental than physical. Obviously, there will be a bit of jet lag. Physically, I am feeling fine. It’s a good challenge.

Gill wasn’t in the best of forms in the white-ball series against Australia and he would look to get back to his best against South Africa.

The opening Test match between India and South Africa will be played at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, from November 14 onwards.