Shubman Gill's recent form has been a major talking point in the ongoing Test series against England, with the young captain notching up impressive scores and demonstrating remarkable composure at the crease. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has provided valuable insights into the technical adjustments that have contributed to Gill's success, highlighting a key shift in his hand position and overall approach to batting.

Shastri, speaking to Sky Sports, pointed out that Gill's improved defense is a result of dedicated practice and refinement. He noted that during Gill's previous tour of England, he tended to play with "hard hands," often pushing at the ball, a trait he shared with Virat Kohli. However, Gill has since consciously worked on getting his "top hand in much more control". This adjustment allows him to let the ball come to him, trusting his defensive technique and timing his shots more effectively.

By having the top hand in control, Gill can drive the ball more effectively and pull it with greater authority. The enhanced defensive stability allows him to play his natural game with more freedom and responsibility. Gill's natural game is characterized by elegant and classy style of batting that has garnered fans around the world. His stance is wide, allowing him to play shots with ease. His ability to stay low and play late has made him difficult to bowl to, especially against spin.

Shastri emphasized that Gill isn't burdened by the pressure of captaincy, allowing him to focus on his batting. Gill himself stated before the series that he didn't want the captaincy to dictate his batting approach. This mental clarity, combined with his technical improvements, has enabled him to play long innings and shoulder responsibility in the middle order.

Gill's journey to becoming a key player for India has been remarkable. His passion for cricket was evident from a young age, and he honed his skills under the guidance of his father, a former cricketer. Gill's dedication and natural talent quickly caught the attention of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the junior national team. His breakthrough moment came during the 2018 IPL, when he was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders.

While Gill's talent has never been in doubt, there have been instances where his technique has come under scrutiny. Some critics have pointed out a lack of trigger movement in his batting, suggesting that incorporating this element could further enhance his game. Others, like Cheteshwar Pujara, have questioned his footwork and tendency to play with "hard hands".

Despite these criticisms, Gill has consistently demonstrated an ability to adapt and improve his game. His recent success in England is a testament to his hard work, determination, and willingness to learn from his experiences. As Ravi Shastri aptly put it, Gill has matured as an individual and has the potential to achieve great things. Shastri has urged the BCCI to support Gill for the next three years, confident that he will deliver for the team.