Shubman Gill talks about his association with Rahul Dravid

Shubman Gill has had a stupendous time in the last one year or so. He was the second highest run-scorer in the U19 World Cup in New Zealand. During the tournament, he also notched a century against Pakistan in the semi-final and the knock brought him into the limelight. He was thereafter blessed with a contract in the Indian Premier League (IPL) by Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

The pugnacious potential then got into the India ‘A’ team and he didn’t flatter to deceive by any stretch of the imagination. Shubman also churned out a couple of impressive knocks for Punjab in the 2018-19 edition of the Ranji Trophy. Recently, he got his maiden call-up in the Indian team and made his debut in the ODI series against New Zealand at the Seddon Park in Hamilton.

Though he couldn’t get a substantial score under his belt, he is speculated to have a bright future. In the meantime, Gill opened up on his association with Rahul Dravid, the former Indian cricketer, under whom he plied his trade in the U19 World Cup.

The 19-year-old told how the legendary cricketer helped him eradicate the chinks in his batting and helped him grow as a cricketer. Moreover, Shubman mentioned that Dravid doesn’t like to boast about his numbers and achievements.

I have learnt from him is how to be patient and calm

“My association with Rahul Dravid began more than two years ago. As a youngster, I would always watch his batting on television and discuss the same with my father too. As a coach, he understands my game well. The good thing is, if you want to discuss something with him, he is always available,” Gill was quoted as saying in the Indian Express.

“Since my childhood days, I have practiced aerial shots and I like playing those. In 2017, when we were playing ODIs against England Under-18 in Mumbai, I got out cheaply in the first two matches after playing aerial shots. I made 35 and 37. Rahul sir told me to use the aerial shots judiciously and to hit them only once I am well set,” he remarked.

“I followed his advice and made 138 and 160 in the next two matches. What I have learnt from him is how to be patient and calm. At times he gives inputs with regards to batting if he sees something. But at the same time, during tour,s I constantly talk to him. He never speaks about his knocks or his feats,” the Young Turk added.

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