'Very difficult to get out': Sri Lanka legend makes huge 'best batter in India' claim for Test captain Shubman Gill

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'Very difficult to get out': Sri Lanka legend makes huge 'best batter in India' claim for Test captain Shubman Gill originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:​

• Chaminda Vaas warns Sri Lanka against Indian skipper Shubman Gill.
• Vaas warns that once he gets settled, it is very hard to dismiss the Indian captain
• India is set to face Sri Lanka for two Tests starting from August 15.

Chaminda Vaas praises Shubman Gill as 'best batter in India' in recent years​

Just two days remain before the Indian Test team gets going for the two-match series against Sri Lanka. The side has been struggling in the longest format for quite some time now, and these two matches can be the catalyst to get back into the race for the World Test Championships. But it won't be easy.

The three-day practice match last week proved that Sri Lanka have what it takes to give some heavy competition to the Men in Blue, with the game stretching till the final over. It is also worth noting that the Lions have a clear edge in experience heading into the match.

Shubman Gill will be leading a young side who haven't been at their best after a string of injuries that ruled out Sai Sudarshan and sidelined Gill for the first innings of the practice game himself.

However, while home conditions might have given the perfect conditions for their spinners, Sri Lankan great Chaminda Vaas had a quiet warning against the Indian skipper.

MORE: Chaminda Vaas names Indian player to look out for vs Sri Lanka, calls India a powerhouse without Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Vaas warns that Gill is a threat that is very hard to dismiss for Sri Lanka​

Speaking to RevSports, the former bowler pointed out how Gill has all the tools required to anchor India's batting lineup and lead from the front, particularly on challenging subcontinent tracks like Galle. Vaas was also quick to praise his technical composure and ability to dominate bowling attacks once he gets accustomed to the conditions.

"Shubman Gill has been performing really well," Vaas said. "He has the temperament. Once he gets going, it is very difficult to get him out. I’ve seen him bat, and he is a brilliant player. He is the best I have seen in India over the last few years." Vaas identified Gill as the single most critical factor for India's success in the series opener.

The former bowler noted that Gill's ability to handle spin and pace with equal authority will be vital in setting the tone for the visitors. "I’m sure Shubman Gill will be the key, especially in the first Test in Galle," Vaas added, acknowledging the stern test Sri Lanka's spin-heavy attack typically poses at the venue.

He was also quick to single out the Indian skipper as the standout batter of this era.

"Shubman Gill has been performing really well," Vaas said. "He has the temperament. Once he gets going, it is very difficult to get him out."

I’ve seen him bat, and he is a brilliant player. He is the best I have seen in India over the last few years."

"I’m sure Shubman Gill will be the key, especially in the first Test in Galle," Vaas added, acknowledging the stern test Sri Lanka's spin-heavy attack typically poses at the venue.

MORE: IND vs SL 1st Test predicted playing XIs: India's selection dilemma between Krishna & Brar

India's bench strength ensures smooth transition​

While the absence of figures like Kohli and Rohit marks a significant shift for Indian cricket, Vaas emphasised that the country's domestic pipeline and modern talent pool ensure they remain an intimidating force on the world stage.

Pointing to other prominent performers in the setup, Vaas praised Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul for stepping up, noting that India's bench strength remains unmatched in international cricket.

"KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal—I can name many," Vaas observed. "Even though Virat and Rohit are not there, India still have a powerhouse of talent. They have so many good, upcoming cricketers, eager to perform and waiting for their opportunities."

As Gill prepares to lead India into the Test series in Sri Lanka, endorsement from an icon of Vaas' stature underlines the growing consensus around the young captain's trajectory as a world-class batter and leader.


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