NEW DELHI: India's Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill has reportedly put forward a proposal aimed at improving the team's preparedness ahead of every Test series.
According to a report by The Times of India, following India's second home Test series whitewash against South Africa within a span of 13 months, Gill suggested that the BCCI organise a 15-day preparatory camp before each Test assignment.
"Gill was very clear that the team needed better preparation before going into a Test series. There was an issue with the itinerary this season where the team didn't have much time to prepare. Gill recommended to the Board that it would be ideal if there were 15-day red-ball camps before a Test series," a BCCI source told TOI.
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The source further added that Gill has a clear vision for taking Indian cricket forward, and given that he captains the team in two formats, it is important for him to have a greater say in decision-making.
"Gill is showing assertive qualities now. He is presenting his vision to the selectors and BCCI with a lot more clarity. It augurs well for Indian cricket as there is a need for a strong captain after Rohit Sharma. The Test and ODI teams are Gill's. It is important for him to have a bigger say," the source told BCCI.
That said, India's packed international schedule could pose challenges in holding 15-day camps on a regular basis. A BCCI source indicated that the board may instead look to make optimal use of its coaching staff and the facilities available at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru.
"There may be instances where Gambhir will be busy with white-ball teams even as there may be a Test series approaching. The Board may use the services of CoE cricket head VVS Laxman to organise red-ball camps," the source said.
