Ravi Shastri, the former head coach of India, has advised the team management to keep Shubman Gill as captain, regardless of the outcome of the ongoing series against England. Following the retirement of Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, Gill assumed the role of India’s captain.
At 25 years old, Gill made a remarkable start to his leadership, becoming the fifth Indian captain to score a century on his captaincy debut. However, his knock ultimately wasn’t enough, as England chased down a target of 371 in the fourth innings to win by five wickets.
Despite the defeat, Shastri commended Gill’s growth and maturity, urging the team management to stick with him as captain for the next three years, regardless of the series result.
“He has grown a lot. The way he manages the media, speaks at press conferences, and handles tosses—he’s come a long way. Allow him to stay in the role for three years. Don’t make changes based on what happens in the series. Stick with him for three years, and I believe he will deliver for you,” Shastri told Wisden.
He further emphasised that the young player possesses all the qualities needed to become one of the game’s greats, but he must adapt to various conditions over time.
“I’ll be disappointed if Gill doesn’t achieve great things. He has a graceful, effortless elegance, and there’s a certain regal quality about him when he’s batting. If he can learn from experience and adjust to different conditions, I believe he’s the one to watch,” he added.
In the aftermath of India’s defeat, several cricket experts have raised concerns about Gill’s on-field strategies during the match. Consequently, he now faces the crucial task of motivating his team and preparing them for the second Test, which is scheduled to start on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
India have yet to win a Test match at this venue, having lost seven of the eight matches they’ve contested there. Under the leadership of Shubman Gill, the team will face the challenge of overcoming history as they seek to level the series in the forthcoming match.