India’s surprising selection call in Melbourne needs valid reason, says Shastri

In 12 Tests in 2024, Gill scored 866 at an average of 43.3, including three centuries, against England and Bangladesh.

His form on tours is something he has struggled with – since his 91 in the famous Brisbane Test in 2021, he has scored just one overseas century (in Bangladesh) in Tests, and averages 23.8.

However, Shastri believes a player of his quality simply must feature in India’s best XI.

“How can he be out of the XI is my question,” Shastri said. “Now how he comes into the XI, that’s the call of the team.

“When you average over 40 in the year 2024, not many players have averaged over 40 – I think he’s averaging 43 or 44 – for him to be sitting and cooling his heels must be one of the toughest pills to swallow.

“I’m trying to think, if I had to make him sit out or make a player who is averaging 40 sit out, what will I tell him?”

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