Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel expressed confidence that captain Shubman Gill will deliver another strong performance in the upcoming fifth and final Test against England at The Oval, starting Thursday.

Gill has been in sensational form throughout the series, scoring 722 runs in four Tests at an average of 90.25, including four centuries. He is just 11 runs short of surpassing Sunil Gavaskar’s record for the most runs scored by an Indian captain in a Test series.

“People questioned his ability in overseas conditions, but Gill has answered those doubts brilliantly,” said Patel in a conversation with JioHotstar. “Even after scoring over 600 runs, critics raised concerns after just one failure at Lord’s. I hope he finishes the series with another big knock.”

Patel, who worked with Gill as Gujarat Titans’ assistant coach in IPL 2025, also praised KL Rahul’s consistency in the series. Rahul has amassed 511 runs at an average of 63.87 and holds fond memories of The Oval, where he scored a century in 2018.

“He’s been reliable and composed. Unlike previous tours, he’s maintained his form throughout the series. I expect more from him at The Oval,” said Patel.

With Rishabh Pant sidelined due to a fractured foot, Patel backed Dhruv Jurel to take the gloves. Jurel has previously stepped up when Pant was unavailable and impressed as a substitute keeper.

“I don’t think there will be changes to the top order. Rahul and Jaiswal have provided good starts. Jurel should be the designated wicketkeeper; the only question is his batting position,” Patel concluded.