India head coach and former batter Raul Dravid has been left massively impressed by opener Shubman Gill and always believed in the ability that he has, Dravid said ahead of the final of the World Test Championship at the Kennington Oval on June 7 between India and Australia.
During a conversation with Star Sports, Dravid heaped praise on the youngster, who won the Orange Cap in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season and has had a brilliant year in terms of run-scoring.
"Shubman has always been a star player. He has been a class player when I saw him from his Under-19 days. He came into the U-19 World Cup and was already earmarked as someone who would become a very special player. He has been great, he's had a few years with the team, he's been in and out of the side a little bit, and he's finding his feet in international cricket," Dravid said.
The former India skipper is also of the opinion that Gill not only has the skillset but given his recent performances, he also has the confidence and belief that he can succeed on the international stage. "It's all come together. He's had a few injuries as well. But it felt like over the last two years, it's all come together. He's now experienced at this level, he's more comfortable around this space. He's got that confidence and belief that he can succeed at this level. He has really developed as a superb player," Dravid added.
Gill's performances at the top of the batting order will be crucial in India's machinery as they look to lift their first ICC trophy in almost a decade when they face Australia at The Oval in London.
Dravid also defended the decision to bring Ajinkya Rahane back into the Test fold, and gave his reasoning for the same. "Firstly, it's good to have him. We have had a few injuries which probably led to him having the opportunity to come back into the squad. Great for us to have someone of his quality. He brings a lot of that experience, he brings proven performance in overseas conditions, even in England, he has played some terrific innings for us. He brings terrific catching in the slips.
He just brings his personality to the group, which is really important. He has led the team and has had considerable success. It's just great to have someone like him around here," Dravid told the media ahead of the Test match.
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