Shubman Gill's SCG Test preparation draws 'special viewers'

NEW DELHI: Shubman Gill’s parents were spotted watching their son fine-tune his batting in the nets ahead of the fifth and final Test of the

Border-Gavaskar Trophy

at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). India, trailing 1-2 in the five-match series, is gearing up for the series-decider starting Friday.

Shubman's father Lakhwinder Singh and mother Keart Gill were seated close to the practice area, intently observing his batting drills.
WATCH:

India's wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant took a moment to meet Shubman's parents during the net session.
During the session, Shubman had a brief conversation with head coach Gautam Gambhir, who was seen patting him on the back.
Soon after, Jasprit Bumrah approached Gill, sparking speculation that the 25-year-old might have received good news about his return to the playing XI.

Having missed the fourth Test at the MCG to accommodate Washington Sundar in the lineup, Shubman appeared to be in contention for a comeback in Sydney.

In the nets, Shubman faced deliveries after Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, exuding confidence throughout the session as his father looked on from nearby steps.
Although Gambhir did not confirm Shubman’s inclusion during the pre-match press conference on Thursday morning, indications strongly suggested his return to the team.
Regarding team composition, Gambhir stated that Akash Deep is the only confirmed absence due to a back issue.

“Akash Deep is out because he got a back issue. That’s the only injury concern,” Gambhir clarified, dismissing rumors of additional fitness concerns in the squad.
He added that the final decision on the playing XI would be made on match day after evaluating the pitch.

“We will look at the wicket and announce the playing XI tomorrow,” Gambhir said.
When asked about skipper Rohit Sharma’s fitness and team plans, Gambhir was direct, saying, “Everything is fine with Rohit. I don’t think there is anything traditional about it. The head coach is here, that should be fine. That should be good enough. And we have to look at the wicket to finalise the playing XI tomorrow.”