Gill admits problems juggling formats before SA Tests

India’s Test skipper Shubman Gill admitted that he is “still trying to figure out how to balance" playing across all three formats as he prepares to lead the team in the upcoming Test series against South Africa, following the white-ball tour of Australia.

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

After completing the limited-overs leg in Australia, India now shift focus to the all-format home series against South Africa, which begins with the first Test at Eden Gardens on November 14. Gill, who leads both the Test and ODI sides, is among the few players juggling across formats, sparking discussions about his workload management.

Addressing the media ahead of the opening Test, Gill said, ‘Tm still trying to figure out how to balance playing across three formats. Since the Asia Cup, it’s been a packed schedule, playing back-to-back matches and constantly switching formats. I’m still learning what works best for me in terms of performance and consistency.”

“The challenge is more mental than physical. Of course, there’s jet lag and travel fatigue, but physically I feel completely fine. It's more about staying mentally sharp. It’s a good challenge, and also a great learning curve for me.

“Turning around in just 4-5 days, coming from a different country and shifting formats —that’s mentally challenging. The body needs to adapt, and playing Test cricket in India brings its own unique challenges. But as professional cricketers, how we respond to those challenges is what defines us,” the 26-year-old added.