At 25, Shubman Gill takes charge as India’s Test captain for the England tour. Can the young leader rise to the occasion and usher in a new era?
As Indian cricket prepares for a new chapter in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle 2025–27, the appointment of Shubman Gill as Test captain signals a shift towards youth, vision, and a bold brand of leadership. Taking over the reins of the Test team is no small task, especially when stepping into the shoes once worn by Virat Kohli, one of India’s most successful red-ball captains. Yet, Gill’s journey so far, both statistically and temperamentally, indicates a leader ready to rise.
Gill’s Test career so far: Promise meets performance
At just 25, Shubman Gill has already represented India in 32 Test matches, amassing 1893 runs at a strike rate of 59.92, reflecting his aggressive yet composed style of play. His tally includes five centuries and seven fifties, with a highest score of 128. Gill’s numbers don’t merely reflect potential, they highlight consistency, adaptability, and an ability to convert starts into significant innings, traits vital for any successful Test cricketer.
While he initially made his mark with memorable performances in Australia, including the iconic Gabba Test win in 2021, Gill has evolved into a mainstay in India’s top order. His versatility, able to play both as an opener and at No. 3, adds flexibility to India’s batting strategy, a crucial asset in the diverse conditions that Test cricket offers.
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Comparing with Kohli’s captaincy legacy
Virat Kohli’s tenure as India’s Test captain (2014–2022) redefined the nation’s red-ball identity. Under Kohli, India achieved 40 wins in 68 Tests, reached the top of the ICC Test rankings, and played two WTC finals. Kohli’s leadership was marked by aggression, fitness culture, and a pace-heavy attack that thrived overseas.
While Gill does not yet have Kohli’s leadership track record, he inherits a structurally solid and experienced team. Where Kohli led with overt passion and intensity, Gill is expected to bring a calmer, calculated, and more modern approach, reflective of the Gen-Z cricketer, confident yet grounded, innovative yet rooted in fundamentals.
Gill’s leadership in junior formats, including leading India to victory in the U19 Asia Cup, has shown promise. His tactical understanding and reading of the game, coupled with the mentorship of senior players like Rohit Sharma and Kohli that he received earlier, should help ease his transition.
How has Gill benefited Indian Cricket so far?
Gill has already proven to be a match-winner. His performances in high-pressure games, such as the historic Border-Gavaskar series win in 2021, showcased mental toughness and a flair for the big stage. Moreover, his technique and temperament have allowed him to perform in challenging overseas conditions, a trait that makes him a reliable long-term asset for India’s Test team.
Off the field, Gill’s demeanor, articulate communication, and growing global fan base also make him a marketable face of Indian cricket in the post-Kohli era. His understanding of modern cricket and ability to relate to younger players will be crucial in maintaining a positive dressing room culture.
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Expectations from Gill in the WTC 2025–27 Cycle
As captain of the Test side in the upcoming WTC cycle, expectations from Gill will be high:
- Consistency in overseas performances: Building on India’s reputation as a formidable traveling side will be crucial. Gill’s own adaptability overseas bodes well for this goal.
- Nurturing next-gen talent: His age and experience position him well to bridge the gap between seniors and emerging players, from Ravindra Jadeja to Yashasvi Jaiswal, fostering a team culture of learning and performance.
- Innovative leadership: With cricket evolving rapidly, Gill’s willingness to embrace data, unconventional tactics, and flexible strategies can give India a competitive edge.
- Mental toughness in crunch games: India has faltered in WTC finals. One of Gill’s biggest tests will be leading the side through high-pressure knockout situations, a hurdle India is yet to overcome in ICC events in recent years.
- Batting leadership: Leading from the front with the bat, much like Kohli did, will be critical. A consistent run with the willow will not only boost India’s chances but cement Gill’s legacy as a captain and a batter.
Agarkar’s take on the new captain and prospects of a vice-captain
On selecting Shubman Gill as India’s new Test captain, Ajit Agarkar said, “We discussed every option that’s there, over the last year or so, we’ve looked at Shubman (Gill) at various times. Taken a lot of feedback from the dressing room. Very young, but there’s been improvement. We’re hopeful he’s the guy. He’s a terrific player, our best wishes to him.”
“You don’t pick captains for one tour or two tours. We’ve seen some progress over the last year or two with him. No doubt it’s going to be as tough as it gets.”
Conclusion
Shubman Gill’s appointment as Test captain is a forward-looking decision that balances promise with preparation. While comparisons with Virat Kohli are inevitable, Gill’s leadership is expected to carve its own niche, one defined by calm confidence, strategic foresight, and an inclusive team ethos.
The WTC 2025–27 cycle offers Gill a stage not just to lead but to transform Indian cricket’s Test identity further. If nurtured and supported well, Gill has all the ingredients to become one of India’s finest Test captains, modern in thought, classical in technique, and bold in execution.
India squad for England series 2025
Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (vice-captain & wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.
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