Gill admits Shami omission was ‘difficult’ before South Africa Tests:India skipper says ‘few bowlers of his quality’; spin combo to be finalised on match day

India captain Shubman Gill said it was a “tough call” to leave out senior pacer Mohammad Shami from the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa, acknowledging that there are “not many bowlers of his quality.” Shami, who performed well for Bengal in Ranji Trophy matches, was not picked for the two-Test series starting Friday at Eden Gardens. Also Read | Hardik Pandya will play Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Selectors will be able to give you a better answer: Gill on Shami’s exclusion Asked about his absence, Gill said: “Not many bowlers are of his quality. But the ones playing have done a terrific job. Sometimes it’s difficult for players like Shami bhai to miss out. The selectors will be able to give you a better answer to that.” While the debate over balance between spin and pace continues, Gill indicated that India might lean on spinners to shape the contest. “There is always a conflict about going with an extra seamer or spinner. We’ll see the conditions tomorrow, but spinners, more or less, will decide the game,” he said at the pre-match press conference. Gill praised the all-round options India have in Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, calling them “excellent with both bat and ball, especially in Indian conditions.” Also Read | India can reach No. 2 by beating WTC champions: South Africa also have chance to enter top 2; here is the WTC scenario ‘Reverse swing’ could be key The skipper also highlighted that pacers could still have a say if the pitch dries out. “Reverse swing plays a big part on dry wickets. Even during the England series, pacers took crucial wickets on spin-friendly pitches,” he noted. With India currently third in the World Test Championship standings, Gill said the series against the reigning champions will be crucial. “It won’t be easy against South Africa. These two Tests are important in the race to the WTC final,” he added.