As the fourth match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off in Melbourne on 26 December 2024, Shubman Gill remains a key figure for India. However, the young opener has had a rough time in this series, facing criticism for his underwhelming performances with the bat. So far, Gill has managed only 60 runs across two Test matches, with an average of just 20.

Shubman Gill’s Struggles in the Series

Gill, who missed the first Test due to a thumb injury, has had a mixed run in the subsequent matches. In the second Test in Adelaide, he got off to a promising start but failed to convert it into a big innings. The third Test in Brisbane saw him dismissed early in the first innings, while KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja stepped up with half-centuries to help India draw the match.

Ricky Ponting’s Insightful Advice

Amid the struggles, Shubman Gill has received advice from none other than Ricky Ponting, one of the greatest Australian cricketers. Ponting, speaking on the ICC review, analyzed Gill’s technique and the adjustments he has made to his batting style. Ponting noted that although Gill has immense potential, his performances abroad have been inconsistent, especially during the current series.

What Ricky Ponting Said About Shubman Gill

Ponting observed that during the second Test in Adelaide, Gill made several changes to his batting stance. He pointed out that Gill’s tendency to put his front pad forward against deliveries coming in off the off-stump led to his downfall, as he was bowled out by Scott Boland with a straight ball. Ponting believes that these technical changes have hindered Gill’s ability to score runs in foreign conditions, particularly in Australia.

Ponting also acknowledged Gill’s natural talent, saying, “I like watching him play. When he’s batting well, he’s unmatched.” However, Ponting stressed the importance of self-belief, asserting that once Gill trusts his natural game, runs will begin to flow.

What Should Shubman Gill Do?

Ponting’s advice for Gill was clear: Instead of making radical changes to his technique, he should focus on trusting his natural game and enhancing his defensive technique. Ponting emphasized the importance of adapting to Australian conditions by working on his defense while maintaining the aggressive mindset that has worked well for him in India and other parts of the world. “He needs to come here with the same mindset,” Ponting added.

Gill’s Challenge and Opportunity

As India prepares for the fourth Test in Melbourne, all eyes will be on Shubman Gill to see if he can bounce back from his struggles. The young batsman has shown glimpses of his class in the past, and with the guidance of experts like Ponting, this could be the match where Shubman Gill shines, proving that he belongs among the best in the world, even in challenging overseas conditions.

With his natural ability, if Gill trusts his technique and mindset, he could be the key to India's success in this crucial match.