Shubman Gill smashes double century ahead of New Zealand Test series

Shubman Gill is expected to retain his place in India's Test squad after scoring an unbeaten 204 for A team in drawn four-day game against New Zealand A on Friday.  Resuming day four at 127 for two, India A went on to make 448 for three in ir second innings with Gill scoring his second double century on an away tour ( first one came in West Indies last year).  Also amongst runs were Priyank Panchal (115 off 164) and Test regular Hanuma Vihari, who stayed unbeaten alongside Gill on 100 off 113 balls.

Gill's 279-ball effort comprised 22 boundaries and four sixes. Vihari's quickfire century comprised 11 fours and three sixes. He and Gill shared an unbeaten 222-run stand for fourth wicket. It was a much-improved batting effort from India A as pitch eased out at Hagley Oval. team, captained by Vihari, made 216 in first innings in which Gill was top-scorer with 83. In response, New Zealand A had amassed 562 for seven before declaring innings.

Mayank Agarwal, who will open alongside Rohit Sharma in two-Test series against New Zealand later this month, had a forgettable outing in game as he got out for a duck in both innings.   After a fine double century, Gill is certain to retain his place in Test squad. 20-year-old was also part of squad in home series against South Africa and Bangladesh but did t get a game. Gill, who had made his India debut in ODI series in New Zealand last year, is likely to warm bench in upcoming Test series with India having a settled opening pair in Agarwal and Rohit. Test squad will be anunced soon. first Test of two-match series begins in Wellington on February 21.