Jadeja Commends Captain Gill’s Steady Leadership Amidst Tough Battle in IND vs WI 2nd Test

Ravindra Jadeja praised Shubman Gill for his consistent performance since taking over as India’s Test captain. Gill reached his fifth century of the year against the West Indies in the second Test match at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday.

Gill has accumulated 940 runs in 14 innings this year, boasting an average of over 84 since his captaincy began.

“Shubman is excelling as captain. He had an excellent series in England. In the first match here, he scored 50 and then followed it up with a century in the second match. Consistency has been the most significant change in Gill, as he continues to score heavily since becoming captain,” Jadeja remarked after the second day’s play.

Jadeja also commended Yashasvi Jaiswal, who narrowly missed a double century due to a miscommunication with Gill.

“Jaiswal is strategic. He knows which bowlers to target and which to endure. His maturity is commendable. It’s beneficial when a batsman understands what shots to play and when. That’s what leads to his success.

“The younger generation takes ownership, which benefits Indian cricket. They are dispelling the reliance on others, developing the habit of playing long innings. This will significantly benefit Indian cricket moving forward,” Jadeja noted.

India posted a formidable 518 runs in their first innings. Although Jadeja did not bat, he eagerly contributed with the ball, entering the attack in the eighth over. Despite a strong start by the West Indies, Jadeja was involved in all four wickets, helping India regain control.

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Now serving as India’s vice-captain in Rishabh Pant’s absence, Jadeja expressed satisfaction in fulfilling a mentorship role without the pressure of leadership responsibilities.

“I don’t focus on being captain or vice-captain. That opportunity passed long ago. I prioritize meeting the team’s needs, whether in batting or bowling. I also offer guidance to young players like Kuldeep and Jaiswal when they seek advice. I’m content with my role,” Jadeja explained.

Jadeja effectively used his bowling skills to reduce the West Indies from 87/1 to 107/4. However, he warned that a victory was still far from secured.

“Tomorrow will be challenging. Breaking the partnership early will make things easier. Their batting lineup isn’t very deep, which could be advantageous for us. Although the pitch isn’t consistently turning yet, making it tough, we are prepared to work hard,” Jadeja emphasized.

West Indies’ vice-captain Jomel Warrican, on the other hand, expected more spin on the third day.

“From previous series in India, I anticipated sharp turn from day one. That hasn’t happened here. Days one and two favored batsmen, but day three should present more turn for the bowlers,” Warrican observed.

Shai Hope and Tevin Imlach guided West Indies to stumps, with Warrican confident in their ability to tackle India’s bowling on the third day.

“It will be challenging, but we have competent batsmen capable of handling it. The wicket is turning more than on day one, so we need to remain focused and play to our potential,” Warrican concluded.

Published on Oct 11, 2025