Shubman Gill may have narrowly missed breaking a legendary record, but Sunil Gavaskar believes the young captain’s achievement carries far more weight.
Gill Falls Just 20 Runs Short of Historic Milestone
In the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, Shubman Gill had the chance to surpass Sunil Gavaskar’s iconic record of 774 runs in a single Test series—set back in 1971 against the West Indies. However, a short stay at the crease in the second innings saw him dismissed for just 11 by Gus Atkinson. Gill’s final tally? A remarkable 754 runs—just 20 shy of the record.
Gavaskar: “This Is Way Bigger Than What I Did”
After play concluded on Day 3, Sunil Gavaskar personally presented Gill with a signed cap and shirt, a heartfelt gesture to honor the 25-year-old’s sensational form in his debut series as Test captain.
Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Gavaskar offered nothing but praise:
“In anticipation of him breaking my record, I had something ready for him. But these things are in God’s hands. Still, 754 runs is just fantastic.”
He emphasized that Gill’s feat was more significant given the added burden of leadership:
“Mine came when I was the baby of the team—nobody cared if I failed. But to score 754 as captain, and to shape the fortunes of your side… those 754 runs have done wonders for Indian cricket. Forget the 20-run gap, look at the impact.”
Gill’s Glorious Series with the Bat
Gill’s series was nothing short of sensational. He began with a century at Headingley and then stunned the hosts with twin tons at Edgbaston, powering India to a commanding 336-run win. Though he stumbled at Lord’s, he bounced back in Manchester with another crucial century in the second innings.
India Close In on Victory at The Oval
As the final Test heads into Day 4, India find themselves in control. England, chasing 374, are 50/1 at stumps on Day 3. With Chris Woakes ruled out, England still need 324 runs, while India require eight wickets to seal the series.
No record broken, but for Shubman Gill, this series might just be the beginning of a legacy far greater than numbers can define.
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