Test cricket is the most challenging format of the sport. It tests a player’s skill, patience, and temperament. When we compare Shubman Gill, a young Indian star, with Joe Root, one of England’s finest batters, we see a clash between young talent and experience. Let’s take a closer look at how both perform in red-ball cricket.
Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill played his first Test match for India in December 2020 against Australia. With his elegant shot-making and composed approach at the crease, he is widely regarded as one of India’s rising stars.
- Matches: 32
- Runs: 1,893
- Batting Average: 35.05
- Centuries: 5
- Half-Centuries: 7
- Top Score: 128
Most of Gill’s success has come at home, where pitches suit his batting style. However, he is still working on improving his performance in overseas conditions.
Joe Root
Joe Root played his first Test match in 2012 and has become one of the best Test batsmen in England’s history. He has led the team as captain and consistently performed in all conditions.
- Matches: 153
- Runs: 13,006
- Batting Average: 50.80
- Centuries: 36
- Half-Centuries: 65
- Top Score: 262
Root is known for scoring runs in almost every country, including West Indies, India, and Sri Lanka. He has a solid technique and is very consistent.
Home vs Away Record
- Gill plays well in Indian conditions. He has scored four centuries at home and one in Bangladesh. However, his average in overseas Tests is lower, at about 29.50.
- Root, on the other hand, has scored runs all over the world. His overseas record is as good as his home record, which makes him more complete as a Test player.
Batting Style and Strengths
Gill plays with elegance. His timing and footwork are excellent. He is strong on the front foot and plays fast bowling well on flat pitches. He tends to play better in the second innings and on slower pitches.
Root is a classic Test player. He rotates the strike well, knows how to build an innings. He has a wide range of shots and is very good against both pace and spin. His ability to convert fifties into hundreds is a key strength.
Achievements and Milestones
Gill was part of India’s historic win in Australia in 2021, where he scored 91 in the final Test at Gabba. He also scored a double century in ODI cricket, showing his all-format ability.
Root has played key roles in many England victories, including the Ashes and overseas tours. He is England’s highest run-scorer in Tests and has over 36 centuries to his name.
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Head-to-Head Snapshot
| Feature | Shubman Gill | Joe Root |
| Test Matches | 32 | 153 |
| Test Runs | 1,893 | 13,006 |
| Batting Average | 35.05 | 50.80 |
| Centuries | 5 | 36 |
| Overseas Record | Needs Improvement | Excellent everywhere |
| Style | Elegant and composed | Classical and reliable |
| Career Stage | Rising Star | Established legend |
Conclusion
Shubman Gill is a young and talented batter with a bright future in Test cricket. His journey is just beginning, and with time, he can become a consistent performer for India across all conditions.
Joe Root, on the other hand, is already a legend in Test cricket. With over a decade of experience, thousands of runs, and records to his name, he sets the benchmark for players to follow.
Right now, Joe Root clearly stands ahead in terms of performance, experience, and consistency. But if Gill continues to learn and grow, especially overseas, he could become one of the best in the future.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
