Shubman Gill Blames T20 Leagues for Destroying West Indies’ Red-Ball Legacy

India Test captain Shubman Gill has highlighted the role of T20 cricket and overseas leagues in the decline of West Indies cricket. Once a powerhouse in the 1980s and 1990s, the team has struggled in red-ball cricket over the last decade.

Speaking ahead of the second Test against West Indies in New Delhi, Gill stressed that a strong Test setup is essential for producing better ODI and T20 sides.

“I feel as a cricketing nation, whoever plays cricket, if your red-ball base is very strong, then you automatically do well in ODIs and T20s,” he said.

He added that the focus of players on T20 leagues often comes at the cost of Test cricket.

“Maybe their players’ focus is more on T20 and leagues. So if your focus is on that, then the base from where the game has started gets neglected, and that’s where the struggle starts,” Gill explained.

When asked about the long-discussed idea of a two-tier Test system, Gill avoided giving a direct opinion.

“I think it’s the ICC’s decision whether there should be a two-tier system or not,” he said.

Gill pointed to India’s success as an example of the importance of strong structures and priorities. He cited the BCCI’s ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ introduced in March, which rewards players financially for performing consistently in Tests.

“If you are doing well in the Test format, it naturally reflects in ODI and T20s. If you have a good base, you will have good options,” he added.

India beat West Indies by an innings and 140 runs in the first Test in Ahmedabad and will look to seal the series in the second and final match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.