Brisbane, Dec 13 (UNI) Shubman Gill declared that India would approach the Brisbane Test as the beginning of a three-match series, emphasising the team’s intent to gain an edge in the ongoing clash against Australia.
The series stands level at 1-1 after the Adelaide Test, and Gill’s statement sets the tone for a high-stakes encounter at the Gabba.
Gill, who played a decisive role in India’s historic 2020-21 victory at the Gabba with a scintillating 91, shared a sense of nostalgia as he returned to the iconic venue. “Definitely very nostalgic when I came here,” he said on the eve of Brisbane Test here on Friday. “Walking into the stadium again after the 2021 win brought back a flood of memories.”
The young opener underlined the significance of the Brisbane Test, saying, “We will treat it as a three-match Test series, and if we win this one, we will have an advantage going into Melbourne and Sydney.”
Gill reflected on the unique challenges of batting in Australia, especially under the lights with the pink ball, which adds another layer of complexity to the game. “One of the challenges is whether you can play the game you want to play, irrespective of what’s happening at the other end and the scorecard,” he noted.
Recalling his struggles in the Adelaide Test, he said, “I faltered in the first innings because of what happened at the other end. There was a period when I didn’t face much—maybe one ball in four overs—and when I finally did, I misjudged a fuller delivery. These moments test your focus and patience.”
Gill elaborated on the difficulties of pink-ball Tests, adding, “In a pink-ball game, it is a little bit harder to gauge the seam from the bowler’s hand, especially at night. We’re more accustomed to playing with the red ball during the day.”
The Gabba, renowned for its intensity, poses additional mental demands for players. “The intensity at which games are played here, especially Tests, is one of the toughest aspects. Maintaining that level of focus for five days is what makes touring Australia so challenging,” he said.
India’s bid to recreate their 2021 Gabba heroics adds a sense of urgency and determination to the upcoming match. With the series hanging in the balance, a victory in Brisbane could be pivotal for the visitors.
