Ahead Of Test Squad Announcement, Shubman Gill Scores Stunning Double Ton Against New Zealand A

Highly-rated Shubman Gill has further boosted his chances of retaining his spot in India’s Test team with a stunning double century for India A against New Zealand A. The first unofficial Test between the two sides ended in a draw as the likes of Shubman Gill and Hanuma Vihari starred with the bat in the second innings.

Both Hanuma Vihari and Shubman Gill were the only batsmen to cross the 50-run mark in the first innings as India A were all out for just 216. In reply, New Zealand rode on centuries from Mark Chapman and Dane Cleaver to declare their innings on a mammoth total of 562 for 7.

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With their back against the wall, India A needed to do well with the bat and Hanuma Vihari and Shubman Gill once again delivered. Along with these two, Priyank Panchal also crossed the triple-digit mark. But Shubman Gill was the star of the show. While Vihari and Panchal scored 100* and 115 respectively, Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 204 as the match ended in a draw. India A scored 448 for 3 in their second innings.

Gill’s knock came off 279 deliveries and was studded with 22 fours and four sixes. The right-handed batsman would be hoping that his double century helps his retain his spot in the senior Test side for the upcoming series against New Zealand. Gill was the backup opener when India took on South Africa and Bangladesh last year.

But with Prithvi Shaw back in action and KL Rahul in stunning form, there are question marks over Gill’s place in the team. But the timely knock is bound to brighten up his chances. The two-match Test series will start on February 21. The selectors are likely to announce the squad inside a week.