“Sometimes, I put too much pressure…..”, Shubman Gill Opens Up About Lean Patch in Australia After Ranji Century

India’s ODI Vice-Captain Shubman Gill has returned to form with a resilient century in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25. Playing for Punjab against Karnataka at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Gill scored 102 runs in the second innings. His knock stood out amidst Punjab’s struggles, as they were bowled out for just 213, eventually losing by an innings and 207 runs.

This century came as a much-needed confidence boost for Gill, who endured a tough patch in Australia. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy saw him manage less than 100 runs in three Tests, failing to make an impact. Reflecting on his struggles, Gill admitted that he sometimes puts undue pressure on himself, leading to a loss of focus.

Gill Acknowledges Mental Struggles

Opening up after his innings, Gill said his red-ball form had been a concern lately.

“Sometimes, I put too much pressure on myself to score big runs. It takes away my focus and concentration,” Gill shared. He admitted that in crucial moments, he often feels the need to deliver big, which impacts his natural game.

The 25-year-old emphasized the importance of staying involved in the game to maintain his rhythm. “As a person, I like to be constantly engaged. It brings out the best in me,” he added.

Satisfied With His Approach

Gill’s first-innings failure, where he scored a single-digit figure, made his second-innings ton even more significant. Reflecting on the knock, he said, “This innings was very satisfying for me. I scored slowly at first, around 40 runs in 130 balls. They bowled well, and the wicket had some help. Post-lunch, I started playing more shots and ensured I kept the runs coming.”

The Importance of Domestic Cricket

Gill stressed how playing domestic cricket helps players sharpen their game. “Practicing is important, but match situations challenge your skills differently,” he explained. He highlighted the value of playing domestic games when there is enough gap between international fixtures.

“When you’re playing well, it’s crucial to stay in that zone. Matches, even at domestic levels, help you feel the game better,” said Gill.

Lean Patch in Australia

Gill’s lean patch in Australia saw him miss out on significant contributions in the Test series. He also sat out the Perth Test due to a thumb injury and was rested for the MCG Test. His only noteworthy performance on the tour was a half-century in a pink-ball practice game.

The ODI vice-captain acknowledged the importance of this Ranji Trophy ton, saying, “Any innings at any level matters when you’re trying to regain form. This knock was vital for me.”

Despite Gill’s century, Punjab collapsed under Karnataka’s dominance. The hosts amassed 475 runs in their first innings, with Punjab folding for 55 in their opening attempt. While Gill fought valiantly in the second innings, his effort wasn’t enough to prevent a massive loss.

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