Published:October 12, 2016 5:09 pm
Gautam Gambhir played his first Test for India since 2014. (Source: PTI)
Making his comeback in the Indian Test team after two years, Gautam Gambhir had a nervous start to the third Test between India and New Zealand. Virat Kohli decided to bat first after winning the toss and Gambhir had to open the batting. After a couple of defensive and once he had a good look of the wicket, Gambhir looked fluent. The two back to back sixes off pull shots will remain a highlight.
But it was his second innings in which he batted with a shoulder injury but scored at a brisk rate that still stands out for his fans. Gambhir’s first innings was cut short when a Trent Boult ball came into him and he was trapped LBW. But that 27-run innings had glimpses of Gambhir of old but with a new stance.
Second innings was a proof that he completely belonged to the international stage. India needed to score some quick runs and he did just that. A 54-ball fifty and hitting boundaries at will asserted Gambhir’s return to form.
The opening batsman’s return could well have been cut short because on a injury. He, while fielding, injured his shoulder and worsened it when he dived on the same shoulder to complete a run. He had to retire but came back after the fall of India’s first wicket and scored that important fifty.
There was no lack of support for him in Indore as well. The fans had prayed for his selection and protested when he was out. He had to thank them and he did. Gambhir had a message for his fans.
Often in life, you have moments when you are made to feel the world is rooting for you. Thank you for your love and support. Humbled.
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) 12 October 2016
His fans won’t mind Gambhir in the Indian team for the long home season.
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