For Shubman Gill, sharing the dressing room with some of the top Indian cricketers has been a learning experience. The 20-year-old, who broke into the Indian team early this year for an away series against New Zealand -- says that sharing the dressing room with top players has helped him improve his game.
“The difference (between India A and India) is only about how mentally prepared are you for a higher level of cricket and the extent of hunger in you to succeed,” Gill said.
Stylish and strokeful, Gill has previously been a vice-captain of the India U-19 team, and recently, he was given the task of leading India A against South Africa A, and also in Deodhar Trophy -- where he led India C. Explaining the changing approach to suit the demands of matchplay at various levels, the Punjab batsman said: “The bowling at the U-19 level is not of the same calibre as international cricket. I am aware that the ease with which runs could be scored at junior level will not happen.”
He elaborated: “I need to accept that reality and once I get set, pacing the innings is an aspect about the game which needs to be grasped. Batting is tough on wickets in New Zealand, so adapting to those conditions was valuable experience,” Gill said, on the sidelines of an event by Cinthol soaps.
Rahul Dravid, coach of India A and India A, has made a big impact on a young pack of cricketers, and he has had an impact on Gill as well. “Rahul Dravid Sir told us to try and become your best version, do not try to emulate any one else. He s always looking at ways to mould us so that our talent can be used in a better way,” he said.
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