Shubman Gill’s innings ended prematurely due to a run-out in the first innings of the final Test against England.
Shubman Gill Costly Misjudgment Overshadows Bright Start
Shubman Gill’s promising start at The Oval ended in disappointment as he was run out for 21 on Day 1 of the final Test against England. His dismissal—stemming from a misjudged single and a sharp direct hit by Gus Atkinson—sparked criticism from fans and drew attention from India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. The coach addressed the incident during a post-day press conference, labeling it a “misjudgment” but urging perspective given Gill’s exceptional series.
Shubman Gill, who has surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s long-standing record for most runs by an Indian captain in a Test series, was in fluent form before the blunder. On the second ball of the 28th over, he nudged the ball and took off for a non-existent single before freezing midway, leading to a direct-hit dismissal that felt like a major blow with India already under pressure.
Ten Doeschate defended Gill, highlighting his outstanding consistency and form throughout the series. “He’s in the touch of his life,” he said. “These mistakes happen.” He suggested the dismissal resulted more from a positive intent to rotate strike than from recklessness. Acknowledging the lapse, the coach concluded, “Given what he’s done in the first four Tests, we’ll let him get away with that one.”
India 204/6
Shubman Gill’s unfortunate run-out was a setback on a day when England consistently chipped away at India’s batting. Despite the dismissal, Gill’s performance in the series remains historic—amassing 737 runs at an incredible average of 92.12. In doing so, he surpassed Sunil Gavaskar’s 46-year-old record for the most runs by an Indian captain in a Test series. However, his exit at The Oval cost him a golden chance to overtake Gavaskar’s iconic tally of 774 runs in a series.
Gill’s departure could have triggered a collapse, especially with India already under pressure, but Karun Nair’s composed unbeaten 52 ensured stability. His resilience helped the visitors end the day at 204/6, preventing further damage after a shaky middle session. While Gill’s run-out may be viewed as a missed opportunity, it didn’t derail India’s innings entirely.
With the final Test delicately poised, India will look to capitalize on the platform laid by Nair and the lower order. Gill, despite the error, remains the standout performer of the series and a key figure in India’s campaign—his consistency and record-breaking feats a testament to his rising stature in Test cricket.
