xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: As India gears up for the first Test against Australia at Perth’s Optus Stadium, Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel addressed the fitness concerns surrounding young batter Shubman Gill. Speaking ahead of the series opener, Morkel revealed that Gill is "improving on a day-to-day basis," and a final decision regarding his selection will be taken on the morning of the match.

The Test, starting Friday, pits the top two ICC World Test Championship contenders against each other. While India looks to recover from a rare home defeat against New Zealand, Australia aims to end their losing streak in home series against India.

Read More: BGT 2024-25: Virat Kohli’s social media post sparks retirement rumours! Is he planning so?

Shubman Gill’s Injury Worries

Gill’s availability remains a major concern after he sustained a left-hand injury during an intra-squad match while fielding in the slips. Despite his absence from the second day of the match, Morkel remains optimistic:

"Shubman is improving day by day. We will take a call on the morning of the Test. He played well in match simulations during the build-up, so fingers crossed."

Gill has been in stellar form this season, amassing 806 runs in 19 innings at an average of 47.47, including three centuries and three fifties.

Read More: BGT 2024-25: What is India's key to success in Australia? Jasprit Bumrah reveals

Mohammed Shami’s Return Under Scrutiny

Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who recently returned to competitive cricket after a year-long injury hiatus, is also under close observation. His remarkable performance in Bengal’s Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh, where he claimed seven wickets, showcased his readiness.

"We are keeping a close eye on Shami. For us, it is a massive win that he is back playing. He is a world-class bowler, and we are working closely with the support staff to help him find his rhythm," Morkel said.

Shami’s potential inclusion in the squad could be pivotal, given India’s relatively inexperienced pace attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and rising talents like Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna.

Series Schedule

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises intense action with the following schedule:

1st Test: Nov 22–26, Optus Stadium, Perth
2nd Test (D/N): Dec 6–10, Adelaide Oval
3rd Test: Dec 14–18, The Gabba, Brisbane
4th Test: Dec 26–30, MCG, Melbourne
5th Test: Jan 3–7, SCG, Sydney