Team India's assistant coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has downplayed concerns regarding Shubman Gill's workload, stating that workload management is primarily for fast bowlers, not batsmen. This statement comes amidst a busy schedule for Gill, who has been consistently playing across formats for the past several months.
Gill's recent engagements include leading India in a five-match Test series in England, being a part of the Champions Trophy-winning squad, and participating in the IPL season with the Gujarat Titans. He was also recalled to India's T20I squad for the Asia Cup and is slated to lead the team in the Test series against the West Indies.
Kotak clarified the team management's approach, emphasizing that they primarily focus on the workload of fast bowlers. According to Kotak, batsmen are only monitored if they express mental fatigue. He said, "I don't know how you look at workload management, but generally, we do it for bowlers, mainly fast bowlers. When it comes to batsmen, only if they mentally feel that cricket has become too much for them does it become a concern". He further added, "In my view, workload management is actually meant for fast bowlers. For batsmen, I don't think workload management is that much of an issue".
This stance suggests that the team management believes batsmen are better equipped to handle the demands of continuous play, unless they feel mentally overwhelmed. The emphasis on fast bowlers' workload is likely due to the physically taxing nature of their role, which can lead to injuries if not properly managed.
Kotak also addressed the change in Shubman Gill's batting technique, highlighting the batsman's adaptability. He pointed out that modern players understand how to adjust their game according to different formats and conditions.
There is speculation that the BCCI might be considering Shubman Gill as a future all-format captain for India, given his leadership of the Test team and his role as vice-captain in the white-ball squads. Gill's childhood coach, Sukhvinder Singh Tinku, has also expressed his belief in Gill's potential to become India's captain. Tinku highlighted Gill's game sense and talent, stating that he always knew Gill would become a leader.