NEW DELHI: Following
Shubman Gill
's dismissal for 34 by James Anderson in the second Test between India and England at the YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Friday, former India cricket captain and head coach
Ravi Shastri
issued a cautionary message to the young batter.
"It's a fresh side, a young side. These youngsters have to prove themselves. Don't forget,
Pujara
is waiting. He is grinding it out at the Ranji Trophy and is always on the radar," said Shastri during the commentary.
Gill displayed a promising start with an enticing 34-run innings off 46 deliveries. However, the inability to convert it into a substantial knock raised concerns about his position in the side. The talented right-handed batter had been entrusted with a crucial role in the revamped batting order, stepping into the shoes of the seasoned
Cheteshwar Pujara
.
The seasoned Pujara, currently displaying his prowess in the Ranji Trophy playing for
Saurashtra
, had set the stage ablaze with a double hundred and a season brimming with runs. He currently has 538 runs in seven innings at 89.66 this term.
The warning from Ravi Shastri, resonating from the commentary box, underscored the competitive nature of Indian cricket. Pujara, the experienced campaigner, patiently waits in the wings, his domestic exploits demanding attention and consideration.
(With inputs from IANS)