With India ready to trade the quick-fire rhythm of T20 cricket for the endurance of the longest format, captain Shubman Gill has underlined his belief that nothing matches the satisfaction of Test cricket. India kick off their red-ball season with a one-off match against Afghanistan in Mullanpur on Saturday, a game that may not count toward the World Test Championship (WTC) standings but still matters for a team trying to build momentum before a demanding stretch of Tests.
Gill calls Tests the “OG” format as India begin the red-ball stretch
In a video released by the BCCI, Gill described Test cricket as the format that leaves him feeling most fulfilled as a player. He spoke about the unique experience of wearing the whites and the familiar “baggy cap,” framing the contest as the traditional version of the sport.
- Gill said Test cricket is the most satisfying format for him personally.
- He highlighted the feel of playing in the whites and wearing the traditional cap.
- He described the format as the “traditional” or original way of playing the game.
The transition from IPL intensity to five-day cricket
The timing of the fixture brings its own set of challenges. With many players coming straight off the conclusion of another IPL season, India’s squad has to recalibrate quickly—both physically and mentally—for a five-day contest.
Gill acknowledged that the shift is not straightforward, pointing to major differences in conditions and the mental demands of playing in far hotter weather. He contrasted the night-time, fast-paced nature of T20 cricket with the near-40-degree heat expected for the Test, explaining that players must adjust their mindset as well as their technique.
- Gill noted the weather is substantially different from T20 conditions.
- He said T20 is typically played at night, while the Test is in almost 40 degrees Celsius heat.
- He stressed that the adjustment involves both technical changes and mental preparation.
- He added that learning to adapt to this format is part of what makes Tests special and earns global respect.
Younger faces in the squad and Gill’s pride in leading India at home
India’s side also includes several younger players, many of whom Gill has already worked with through the national pathway. The captain expressed confidence in the next generation, believing they can contribute to Indian cricket for years.
- Gill said he has played with many of the youngsters in the Indian setup.
- He referenced their performances in series—at home and during tours or practice matches.
- He described them as exciting young talents and expects them to work hard and represent India for a long time.
For Gill, the responsibility of captaining India remains one of the biggest honours of his career. The Punjab batter grew up playing the sport in his home region, and he said leading the team in front of familiar surroundings makes the moment even more meaningful.
- Gill said he always dreamt of playing for India, and even more so of leading the side.
- He described the privilege of captaining India in front of his home ground, where he grew up playing.
Afghanistan not to be underestimated and what the Test offers for the WTC cycle
Even with India starting as favourites, Gill was firm that Afghanistan should not be viewed as a lesser opponent. He pointed to how much Afghanistan have progressed since the teams first met in Test cricket in 2018, citing their performances in major ICC events and the overall quality of their squad.
- Gill said he remembers the Test against Afghanistan from 2018 and their journey since then.
- He noted Afghanistan’s progress including a World Cup semi-final and a T20 World Cup semi-final.
- He said they have performed strongly across ICC tournaments.
- He added that Afghanistan’s talent level makes them a strong opposition, and the match promises to be compelling.
Although the Afghanistan fixture does not bring WTC points, Gill believes it can be crucial for preparation. He highlighted that after this game, India still have nine championship Tests left in the current cycle—making the encounter an important opportunity to fine-tune combinations and rebuild their red-ball rhythm.
- Gill said the Test match is important for preparation despite no WTC points being available.
- He pointed out that India have nine WTC Tests remaining before the final.
- He described the game as an exciting chance to sharpen planning and regain red-ball form.
For a young Indian group navigating a period of transition, the Afghanistan Test may not influence the standings immediately. However, Gill’s message was clear: the value lies in sharpening habits, building confidence, and establishing the foundation needed for the challenges ahead in the coming months.
