ENG vs IND: Major highlights from Shubman Gill's press conference ahead of 1st Test at Headingly
The newly appointed Indian Test captain shares his views in a pre-match press conference ahead of the Headingly Test.
Be a winner today!
Get the latest cricket updates, Join our community
The wait for India's first Test clash against England is nearly over. On June 20, the two teams will lock horns at the Headingly Cricket Ground in Leeds. With two teams expected to fight to the teeth, the spotlight seems to be the most on India's newly appointed Test captain Shubham Gill, who will be leading the Indian side for the first time in his career.
Gill took part in a pre-match press conference earlier on Thursday and shed light on some of the possible team combinations which the fans are likely to see ahead of the first Test.
See also: Sachin Tendulkar breaks silence on 'Pataudi Trophy' controversy ahead of ENG vs IND series
Nothing seems bigger than captaining your country
The 25-year-old was delighted with the fact that he was presented with an opportunity to lead India in red-ball cricket. Moreover, during the press conference, Gill also addressed a crucial question pertaining to India's number four batting spot. Following Virat's retirement from the red-ball arena, that spot is now up for grabs.
“Captaining the country is the biggest honour anyone can get. After Virat bhai retired, me and GG bhai had a discussion about me batting at that number."
Shubman Gill: Captaining the country is the biggest honour anyone can get.
— Sahil Malhotra (@Sahil_Malhotra1) June 19, 2025
On batting at No.4: After Virat bhai retired, me and GG bhai had a discussion about me batting at that number.
On combination: I will have a look at the pitch one final time. It has been a dry summer pic.twitter.com/LeHeqTzgu9
It has been believed that India's head coach Gautam Gambhir, has advised Gill to bat in that position instead. Now, whether or not that plan will materialize is something which remains to be seen on the opening day of the test. The Indian captain also shared his thoughts on the team's possible playing eleven combination. He stated that the decision will be made once they look at the pitch before the toss, further adding that it's been a dry summer.
"I will have a look at the pitch one final time. It has been a dry summer."
Meanwhile, as always, England have announced their playing eleven prior to the Test. Chris Woakes will spearhead England's pace bowling attack in the absence of Jimmy Anderson. Carse and Tongue are the other two frontline pacers for England. Moreover, the English skipper Ben Stokes can also roll his arm over if necessary to avoid burnout of his key bowlers.
Tags:
