Ravichandran Ashwin makes a bold statement on Shubman Gill ahead of IND vs AFG Test match

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has highlighted the significance of Shubman Gill regarding the upcoming Test match and the future of the Indian team in Test cricket. According to him, Shubman Gill's success could prove to be a crucial factor in the team's overall success. He stated that the 24-year-old batter's performance in the red-ball format could play a decisive role in shaping the team's next phase.

Ahead of the India vs Afghanistan one-off test at PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh beginning June 6, Ashwin hailed Gill's captaincy and batting performances during India tour of England 2025, where the youngster impressed in his first assignment as Test captain. 

“Shubman Gill had a fantastic series in England. As soon as he was made captain, he went there and delivered, both with the bat and with his leadership. He scored runs in tough conditions and handled the pressure of captaincy with maturity. That showed his class and his ability to bat long,” Ashwin told Jio Hotstar. 

He further acknowledged that Gill has worked significantly on himself as a Test batsman and has made substantial changes to his game. 

“He has worked hard on his technique, especially keeping his bat close to the pads, which helped him reduce the gap between bat and pad, making him more solid against the moving ball,” Ashwin explained. 

However, he acknowledged that Shubman Gill is yet to play a big Test innings in home conditions, but expressed confidence that he would soon play a substantial knock in familiar surroundings as well.

Yes, he hasn't fired with the bat yet on home soil as captain, but with this change in his batting technique, I expect him to go all guns blazing at home too. His success in Test cricket will play a big role in redefining India's Test team. He is the kind of player who can lead the batting line-up for years to come,” he added. 

Sharing his views on the spin attack ahead of the Test match against Afghanistan, Ashwin stated that Kuldeep Yadav would lead the spin bowling unit in Ravindra Jadeja's absence, with Washington Sundar providing support. Ashwin also mentioned that Harsh Dubey could get an opportunity to make his debut.

“Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack against Afghanistan in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja. He has been bowling with great rhythm and confidence. His ability to turn the ball both ways and his experience in home conditions make him a huge threat,” Ashwin said.

“Washington Sundar will play the supporting role. He is more of a defensive, containing bowler who can also bat lower down the order. His accuracy and ability to bowl long spells will be useful on a wearing track. Both will be key to India's success in this Test match,” he added.

“However, my eyes will be on Harsh Dubey. I am curious whether he will get a chance. We will have to wait and see if the team goes with Manav Suthar or Harsh Dubey. But I am particularly interested in Dubey because of his strong domestic season. He also had a very good IPL season. Those performances work in his favour. I am looking forward to seeing him make his debut,” he said.