Carlos Alcaraz’s tennis is reminiscent of Shubman Gill’s own batting; the India Test and One-Day International skipper likened the Spaniard’s tricky drop shot to his signature short-arm punch.
Gill, who watched the Wimbledon men’s semifinals, also talked about how much he admired the legendary Roger Federer and listed the sporting legends he would invite to a dream dinner.
While Gill frequently uses the short-arm jab against short-pitched bowling, Alcaraz’s drop shot is regarded as one of the most successful and innovative variety techniques in contemporary tennis.
“The drop shot that Alcaraz plays, it reminds me of the short-arm jab in cricket. I play that shot too, it’s my trademark shot. Quick, deceptive, and very effective,” PTI quoted Gill as saying on JioStar.
Gill listed his ideal dinner guests as cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Viv Richards, Serena Williams and Federer.
“Serena Williams, Roger Federer, and then the cricketers would be Sir Viv Richards and Sachin sir. Those are the four legends I would love to sit with and have dinner with them.
“I think the conversations would be incredible. They have all dominated their eras and have so much to share about their journeys. It would be a dream dinner.”
The India captain also backed Sinner to lift the Wimbledon title.
“I’m backing Sinner to win Wimbledon. He is a fantastic player, and he carries himself really well both on and off the court.”
Federer is still his favorite tennis player, according to Gill, who explained that the Swiss master’s seeming ease belied years of dedication.
“Roger Federer is my favourite. Growing up, a lot of people said he made everything look effortless. But when you play a sport yourself, you realise how much work goes into making it look that way.
“People have called me effortless in cricket too, but I know the effort behind it. The elegance and grace Federer played with was special, and that is why I admire him.”
Gill chose Alcaraz when asked which tennis player he would want to play doubles with.
“He looks like someone who really enjoys himself on the court. It would be fun to play alongside him. I don’t know the details, but I think I can hold my own in tennis, so that would be a fun match.”
