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Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian opener Shubman Gill has confidently shrugged off Australian skipper Pat Cummins's plans to unleash a 'bouncer barrage' during the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the Gabba. Gill, in a composed yet cheeky manner, took a subtle jab at Cummins’s strategy. "Apart from one wicket, he's only had success with the short ball against tailenders. So, I don't know what short-ball plan he's talking about," Gill remarked with a smile during a media interaction.

Cummins’s comments about revisiting the short-ball tactics came after Australia’s success with the plan in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, where Cummins’s fiery bouncers wreaked havoc. Speaking on the eve of the third Test, Cummins hinted that the short-ball strategy would remain a key option. "It worked out in the Adelaide Test. It's always in the back of your mind as a Plan B, or if it's looking really uncomfortable and likely to take wickets, maybe it becomes Plan A for some batters," Cummins stated.

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In Adelaide, Cummins led the attack with a five-wicket haul in the second innings, rattling India's batting lineup, which was bowled out for a meager 175. Australia’s dominance began with Mitchell Starc’s six-wicket haul in the first innings, putting immense pressure on the visitors and allowing Australia to level the series 1-1.

While acknowledging the mental challenges of Test cricket in Australia, Gill maintained his composure and reflected on his game. "As long as I was batting, I felt good. In the first innings, I let what was happening at the other end affect me, and I missed a full ball. In the second, I couldn't pick the pink ball from the hand... couldn't read it. That's why I got out," Gill explained.

India’s No. 3 batter elaborated on the psychological aspects of playing a long series Down Under. "It's challenging. A bowler might have dismissed you earlier, but you face them again later. You know their plans. That's the fun," he said. Gill also underlined the importance of adaptability, highlighting how well both teams are familiar with each other's strengths and weaknesses. "Australia knows our strengths and weaknesses, and vice versa. We've been playing each other frequently, so we're aware of each other's plans," he added.

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Despite the short-ball success of Cummins and Co., Gill remains unfazed and confident in his approach. His focus lies on overcoming the mental challenges posed by the conditions and delivering a resilient performance.

With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy perfectly balanced at 1-1, the third Test at the Gabba promises a thrilling encounter. While Cummins aims to exploit the bounce and pressure the Indian batters, Gill and the Indian team will look to counter with composure and grit, ensuring the series remains competitive in the World Test Championship era.