Ind vs SA 3rd T20I: Shubman Gill on the edge as India’s T20 experiments near deadline

The spotlight is firmly on Shubman Gill as India enter a decisive phase of their T20 World Cup preparations, with the under-pressure opener effectively getting a three-match audition against South Africa to secure his place in the playing XI.

- TRIDIB BAPARNASH

With the T20 World Cup just six weeks away, the Indian team management is understood to be weighing a contingency plan should Gill fail to deliver. India take on South Africa in the third T20I on Sunday at Dharamsala, where sub-40-degree temperatures and the extra bounce on offer at the HPCA Stadium promise a stern test. While the focus has largely been on Gill, India’s problems extend beyond one batter. Captain Suryakumar Yadav’s prolonged lean patch has also become a talking point inside the dressing room. Unlike Gill, however, Suryakumar’ leadership role all but guarantees him a long rope heading into the World Cup.