Shubman Gill on India’s Adelaide debacle: ‘Pink ball is harder to pick’ | Cricket News

“The pink ball was harder to pick, especially at night,” Shubman told reporters ahead of the third Test at the Gabba.
“It is a little bit harder to be able to gauge the seam and the hand of a bowler, especially when you are playing at night, and we are a bit more used to while playing with the red ball in the day, just the dynamics of a pink ball test, we don’t play as much, and just playing at night.
“It is a little bit harder to gauge the seam position and the hand position at which the ball is released, so it is a bit more difficult to look as a batsman.”
Three years ago, the 25-year-old played a crucial role in India’s horic three-wicket win at the venue, scoring a match-winning 91 in the second innings.  
“It was nostalgic walking into the stadium after 2021. The wicket looks good, we’ll know more tomorrow,” he said.
The Indian batter explained why playing Test cricket in Australia is the most challenging.
“The intensity of Test matches here is what makes touring Australia difficult,” he said.
“The mental aspect is challenging. Maintaining mental intensity is crucial. The pitches can be fast and bouncy.”
On his dismissal in the Adelaide Test, Shubman said: “As long as I was batting, I felt good. In the first innings, I let what was happening at the other end affect me. I missed a full ball. In the second, I couldn’t pick the pink ball from hand… couldn’t read it. That’s why I got out.”
“I felt pretty confident. I still feel I have the freedom to play (just like the last tour). I faltered in the first innings of the last game. I was out of strike for 3-4 overs and then missed a full ball. These are the mental challenges you face in Australia,” he explained.
India’s No. 3 also discussed the challenges of playing a long Test series.
“It’s challenging. A bowler might have dismissed you earlier, but you face them again later. You know their plans. That’s the fun.
“Australia knows our strengths and weaknesses, and vice versa. We’ve been playing each other frequently, so we’re aware of each other’s plans,” he said.
Shubman said playing fearless cricket has helped India win Test series in the past, and they will continue to do so.  
“We’ve won the last few series. So there’s no fear. Perhaps if we hadn’t won, maybe. We just assess the ball being bowled, not who’s bowling. We just focus on not getting too aggressive or too defensive,” he said.
When asked why Team India captain Rohit Sharma didn’t attend the press conference, he said: “It was optional net session today. I’m here, he’s not. Hence I’m speaking.”
Shubman also took a subtle dig at Australian captain Pat Cummins, who had threatened to attack the Indian batters with bouncers.
“Apart from one wicket, he’s only had success with the short ball against tailenders. So I don’t know what short ball plan he’s talking about,” he smiled.

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