
The Game Loses Its Essence: Gill on Flat Pitches & Dukes Ball
The ongoing Test series between England and India has been a thrilling affair, with both teams showing immense grit and determination. However, India’s Test captain Shubman Gill has raised a crucial point about the state of the game, specifically the pitches and the Dukes ball. In an interview, Gill expressed his concerns about the lack of assistance for bowlers, which he believes is making the game lose its essence.
The Indian captain pointed out that the flat pitches being prepared for the Tests are taking away the challenge for the bowlers. He emphasized that when a bowler knows that they will only get 20 overs of assistance from the pitch, the rest of the day becomes a defensive exercise, focusing on containing runs rather than taking wickets. This, according to Gill, is not what Test cricket is all about.
“Test cricket is all about the battle between bat and ball, and when you have pitches that are not offering anything to the bowlers, it becomes a one-way traffic,” Gill said. “If you know there are only 20 overs of any help and then you have to spend the rest of the day on the defensive, thinking how to stop runs, then the game loses its essence.”
Gill’s comments have sparked a debate about the state of Test cricket, particularly in England, where the pitches have been criticized for being too flat and unresponsive. The Indian captain’s concerns are not unique to this series, as bowlers around the world have been complaining about the lack of assistance from the pitches.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards preparing pitches that are more conducive to batting, with the aim of producing high-scoring matches. While this has resulted in some thrilling encounters, it has also taken away the challenge for bowlers, who are often left struggling to make an impact.
The use of the Dukes ball, which is designed to swing and seam, has also been a point of contention. While the Dukes ball is meant to provide more assistance to bowlers, its performance has been inconsistent, and many have questioned its effectiveness.
Gill’s comments have been met with support from some quarters, including legendary fast bowler, James Anderson. Anderson, who has taken over 600 wickets in Test cricket, agrees with Gill that the lack of assistance from the pitches is making it difficult for bowlers to make an impact.
“I think Shubman has a point,” Anderson said. “When you’re not getting any help from the pitch, it’s hard to make an impact as a bowler. You need something to work with, whether it’s swing, seam, or bounce. Without that, it’s difficult to take wickets.”
However, not everyone agrees with Gill’s assessment. Some have argued that the flat pitches are a result of the changing nature of the game, and that bowlers need to adapt to the new conditions. Others have pointed out that the Dukes ball is still a relatively new product, and that it may take some time to get used to its performance.
Despite the debate, Gill’s comments have highlighted a crucial issue in Test cricket. As the game continues to evolve, it is essential that the pitches and the ball are designed to provide a level playing field for both batsmen and bowlers. The Indian captain’s words serve as a reminder that Test cricket is all about the battle between bat and ball, and that the game loses its essence when one side has an unfair advantage.
In conclusion, Gill’s comments have sparked a crucial debate about the state of Test cricket. While the flat pitches and the Dukes ball may be providing some exciting encounters, they are also taking away the challenge for bowlers. As the game continues to evolve, it is essential that the pitches and the ball are designed to provide a level playing field for both batsmen and bowlers.
News Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/eng-vs-ind-shubman-gill-game-loses-its-essence-without-help-for-bowlers-1493877