Craig McMillan: India Lacks a Hardik Pandya-Style Allrounder in Overseas Tests

Shubman Gill showcased his leadership skills during his first Test series as India’s captain, managing to secure a 2-2 draw against England. Former New Zealand all-rounder Craig McMillan commended Gill’s performance and emphasized the importance of establishing a distinct style of play under his captaincy. McMillan, who is currently assisting the New Zealand women’s team in their preparations for the upcoming World Cup, also discussed the need for India to find a player with the versatility of Hardik Pandya in their Test lineup.

Gill’s Leadership Journey

Shubman Gill‘s captaincy was put to the test in a challenging series against England. McMillan noted that while Gill made some mistakes typical of a first-time captain, he showed promise and potential for growth. He emphasized that Gill’s experience will improve his leadership skills over time. As the future of Indian cricket, Gill is expected to develop a deeper understanding of his team’s dynamics and the style of play that suits them best. The transition from Virat Kohli’s aggressive approach to Gill’s leadership will be closely observed, as he works alongside coach Gautam Gambhir to define his own strategy.

The Need for All-Rounders

In the context of Test cricket, McMillan highlighted the crucial role of all-rounders, particularly in varying conditions. He pointed out that in Asian conditions, having a spin-bowling all-rounder like Ravindra Jadeja or Washington Sundar is essential. Conversely, in countries like New Zealand, Australia, and England, a fast-bowling all-rounder is vital. McMillan specifically mentioned India’s lack of a player like Hardik Pandya, who can contribute both with the bat and ball. He drew a comparison to Ben Stokes, who serves as a dual asset for England, underscoring the importance of such players in the Test format.

Insights on England’s ‘Bazball’ Philosophy

McMillan also shared his thoughts on England’s aggressive playing style, known as ‘Bazball,’ which has been promoted by their head coach Brendon McCullum. He praised McCullum’s positive approach and the proactive mindset he has instilled in the team. According to McMillan, this philosophy has led to more entertaining cricket and improved performances compared to the previous coaching regime. However, he cautioned that while this style can be effective, it may not be suitable for all conditions, particularly when facing quality bowling attacks like Australia’s.

Preparing for the Women’s World Cup

As the New Zealand women’s team gears up for the World Cup, McMillan expressed confidence in their preparations. He noted that training in India has been beneficial for the players, providing them with valuable exposure to the conditions they will face during the tournament. The time spent at the Super Kings Academy has been instrumental in their development, and McMillan believes it will significantly aid their performance in the upcoming World Cup.

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