Mumbai: Shubman Gill, long seen as a future India captain, steps into the role sooner than expected, and into the deep end—leading India in a five-Test series in England, beginning Friday. Known for his composure and class since his junior cricket days, the 24-year-old now shoulders the dual responsibility of leading the side and delivering with the bat in challenging overseas conditions.
The BCCI’s selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, handed Gill the reins following Virat Kohli’s retirement from Tests. Many consider the timing bold, especially with Gill’s lack of consistent Test experience in England, where he has yet to register a half-century in three appearances.
The question of where he bats—No. 3 or No. 4—is crucial. While Gill has settled into the No. 3 slot in recent matches, Kohli’s absence has opened the No. 4 position. Experts argue that burdening him further with a role change may be unwise. “He should first focus on his batting. If he scores runs, captaincy will come easy,” said Kiran More, former India wicketkeeper and selector.
Gill’s leadership potential was evident during his IPL stint as Gujarat Titans’ captain, earning praise for calmness and communication. Former KKR mentor Abhishek Nayar lauded his work ethic and character, calling him “as driven as the top most cricketers to be the best in the world”.
Gary Kirsten, former India coach and now a mentor with GT, emphasized Gill’s personable nature and maturity. “You can’t be a good leader without being considerate,” Kirsten had noted earlier.
Gill’s appointment was welcomed by former cricketers. Dilip Vengsarkar called it a “brave decision,” and Mithun Manhas, GT’s former assistant coach, described him as “authoritative but level-headed… someone who speaks to players one-on-one and is always accessible”.
Despite limited Test success in England, there is confidence in Gill’s ability. “He possesses all the attributes,” said Nayar, “what happens after that is his journey.”
The pressure is immense. As Kohli’s successor in the red-ball format, expectations will be sky-high. With India desperate to end their ICC title drought, the team’s performance under Gill will likely define his legacy.
Former players advise patience. “You can’t judge anybody from one series. He needs to be given enough time to develop into a top captain,” said More.
For now, Shubman Gill’s leadership journey begins with a tough overseas tour—one that could either cement his credentials or test them to the limit.