Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Test captain Shubman Gill to become a key figure in India’s future in the longest format, saying the batter’s success could have a major impact on the team’s next phase.Ahead of India’s one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh, starting June 6, Ashwin praised Gill’s captaincy and batting during India’s recent tour of England, where he led the side in a Test series for the first time.“Shubman Gill had a fantastic series in England. As soon as he was made captain, he went there and delivered, both with the bat and with his leadership. He scored runs in tough conditions and handled the pressure of captaincy with maturity. That showed his class and his ability to bat long,” Ashwin told Jio Hotstar.Ashwin said Gill’s work on his technique has helped him deal better with movement off the pitch.“He has worked hard on his technique, especially keeping his bat close to the pads, which helped him reduce the gap between bat and pad, making him more solid against the moving ball,” Ashwin explained.While Gill is still waiting for a big innings at home as Test captain, Ashwin expects him to make an impact in familiar conditions.“Yes, he hasn’t fired with the bat yet on home soil as captain, but with this change in his batting technique, I expect him to go all guns blazing at home too. His success in Test cricket will play a big role in redefining India’s Test team. He is the kind of player who can lead the batting line-up for years to come,” he added.Ashwin also spoke about India’s spin options for the Afghanistan Test, with Ravindra Jadeja unavailable. He expects Kuldeep Yadav to lead the spin attack, while Washington Sundar provides support.“Kuldeep Yadav will lead the spin attack against Afghanistan in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja. He has been bowling with great rhythm and confidence. His ability to turn the ball both ways and his experience in home conditions make him a huge threat,” Ashwin said.“Washington Sundar will play the supporting role. He is more of a defensive, containing bowler who can also bat lower down the order. His accuracy and ability to bowl long spells will be useful on a wearing track. Both will be key to India’s success in this Test match,” he added.Ashwin also said he is keen to see whether domestic performer Harsh Dubey gets an opportunity to make his Test debut.“However, my eyes will be on Harsh Dubey. I am curious whether he will get a chance. We will have to wait and see if the team goes with Manav Suthar or Harsh Dubey. But I am particularly interested in Dubey because of his strong domestic season. He also had a very good IPL season. Those performances work in his favour. I am looking forward to seeing him make his debut,” he said.
