As Day 3 of the IND vs ENG 5th Test at The Oval begins, all eyes are on Shubman Gill. The Indian captain is closing in on a historic milestone. He is just 38 runs away from breaking Sunil Gavaskar’s record for the most runs by an Indian in a bilateral Test series.
Former fast bowler Varun Aaron backed Gill to deliver a match-turning knock. “I don’t think Gill will take any risky singles — that’s for sure,” said Aaron on JioHotstar.
Gill was run out for 21 in the first innings. On the second ball of the 28th over, he went for a single that wasn’t there. Gus Atkinson collected and hit the stumps directly. That moment ended Gill’s stay despite his solid technique.
Aaron, however, praised Gill’s form and mindset. He believes the young skipper has been India’s pillar in tough English conditions. “If he gets a big one, India can push for a lead over 300 — and that would tilt the game,” Aaron said.
Gill Breaks Gavaskar’s Captaincy Record
With 737 runs in nine innings, Gill has already surpassed Gavaskar’s 732-run tally from the 1978–79 West Indies series. He has an average of 92.12, with four centuries, including a best of 269.
Gill also leads the run-scoring charts in this five-match series. If he gets 38 more, he will break Gavaskar’s all-time record for most runs by an Indian in any Test series.
Match Summary So Far
India scored 224 in their first innings. Karun Nair (57) and Washington Sundar (26) stitched the only significant partnership. For England, Gus Atkinson (5/33) and Josh Tongue (3/57) were the standout bowlers.
England replied with 247 runs, earning a 23-run lead. Zak Crawley (64) and Ben Duckett (43) gave them a fast start. But a collapse followed, thanks to Prasidh Krishna (4/62) and Mohammed Siraj (4/83).At stumps on Day 2, India were 75/2. Yashasvi Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 51, and Akash Deep was on 4. India now leads by 52 runs.
What Lies Ahead on Day 3
India will look to stretch their lead and put pressure back on England. Aaron believes Gill holds the key. His calm approach, shot selection, and ability to bat long could make the difference.He knows his role is central to India’s plans,” Aaron added.
If Gill reaches another century and India crosses a 300-run lead, the final Test could swing heavily in India’s favor.
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